From the Research
The corrected total leukocyte count is calculated by multiplying the number of nucleated red blood cells (nRBCs) per 100 white blood cells by the uncorrected white blood cell (WBC) count, then dividing this product by 100, and finally subtracting this value from the uncorrected WBC count. The formula is: Corrected WBC count = Uncorrected WBC count - [(nRBCs per 100 WBCs × Uncorrected WBC count) ÷ 100]. This correction is necessary because automated cell counters cannot distinguish between nucleated red blood cells and white blood cells, leading to falsely elevated WBC counts when nRBCs are present in peripheral blood, as discussed in 1. The correction ensures accurate assessment of the true white blood cell count, which is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of various conditions including infections, leukemias, and other hematological disorders. This calculation is particularly important in neonates, patients with severe hemolytic anemias, and those with hematologic malignancies where nucleated red blood cells are more commonly found in peripheral blood. Recent studies, such as 2, have evaluated the performance of automated analyzers in enumerating nucleated red blood cells, highlighting the importance of accurate WBC counting. However, the most recent and highest quality study 1 provides the most relevant guidance on the calculation of the corrected total leukocyte count. Key points to consider when calculating the corrected total leukocyte count include:
- The presence of nucleated red blood cells in peripheral blood
- The use of automated cell counters and their limitations
- The importance of accurate WBC counting in various clinical conditions
- The formula for calculating the corrected WBC count, as mentioned earlier. Overall, accurate calculation of the corrected total leukocyte count is essential for proper patient management and outcomes, as emphasized in 1.