From the Guidelines
A drop in total white blood cell count from 11.4 to 8.7 within 1.5 months is likely a positive change, as it represents a normalization of the white blood cell count. The normal range for white blood cells in adults is typically between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter of blood [ 1 ]. The initial value of 11.4 (presumably thousand cells per microliter) was slightly elevated, suggesting a possible inflammatory response or infection, while the new value of 8.7 falls well within the normal range. Some key points to consider when evaluating this change include:
- The context in which the change occurred: if the person was recovering from an infection, this decline would be expected and reassuring [ 1 ].
- Recent medications, such as corticosteroids, which can increase white cell counts.
- Stress levels and concurrent medical conditions, which can also impact white blood cell counts. This decrease could indicate resolution of an infection, reduction in inflammation, or response to treatment if medications were being taken. No specific intervention is needed for this change, as it represents a return to a healthier state. However, if the decline continues in future tests, further evaluation might be warranted to rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the decrease in white blood cell count.
From the Research
Possible Indications of a Drop in Total White Blood Cell (WBC) Count
A drop in total White Blood Cell (WBC) count from 11.4 to 8.7 within 1.5 months could indicate several things, including:
- A response to treatment, such as antipsychotic medication for patients with schizophrenia, as seen in a study where total WBC count decreased significantly after treatment with certain antipsychotics 2
- A reduction in inflammation, as total WBC count is an index of chronic and low-grade inflammation 2
- A decrease in neutrophil consumption, which could be due to a resolution of a bacterial infection, as neutrophil consumption surpasses supply during such infections 3
- A normal variation in WBC count, as WBC counts can fluctuate over time due to various factors, including age, as seen in a study on age-dependent changes in total and differential WBC counts in children 4
Factors to Consider
When interpreting a drop in WBC count, it's essential to consider the following factors:
- The patient's medical history and current treatments, as certain medications, such as infliximab and thiopurines, can significantly reduce WBC count 5
- The presence of any underlying infections or inflammatory conditions, as these can affect WBC count 3
- The patient's age, as WBC counts can vary with age, particularly in children 4
Laboratory Tests
To better understand the cause of a drop in WBC count, additional laboratory tests may be necessary, such as: