From the Guidelines
White blood cells are a crucial component of the immune system, and their count is essential in diagnosing and managing various conditions, including hyperleukocytosis, which is associated with increased induction mortality mainly due to hemorrhagic events, tumor lysis syndrome, and infections 1. When considering white blood cells, it's essential to understand the different types and their functions. The five main types of white blood cells are:
- Neutrophils: the most abundant type, quickly responding to bacterial infections by engulfing and destroying pathogens
- Lymphocytes: including B cells that produce antibodies and T cells that coordinate immune responses and kill infected cells
- Monocytes: developing into macrophages that clean up cellular debris and fight infections
- Eosinophils: helping to combat parasitic infections and participating in allergic responses
- Basophils: also participating in allergic responses and combating parasitic infections A normal white blood cell count ranges from 4,500 to 11,000 cells per microliter of blood. However, in cases of hyperleukocytosis, defined as a WBC count more than 100 109 /L, immediate medical treatment is required to prevent complications such as hemorrhagic events, tumor lysis syndrome, and infections 1. In managing hyperleukocytosis, hydroxyurea is recommended as the therapy to lower WBC, given at dosages up to 50 to 60 mg/kg per day, until WBCs are less than 10-20 109 /L 1. It's also crucial to prevent tumor lysis syndrome through hydration, control of uric acid production using allopurinol or rasburicase, and control of urine pH. Key considerations in managing white blood cell-related conditions include:
- Monitoring white blood cell counts to diagnose and manage conditions such as hyperleukocytosis
- Providing immediate medical treatment in cases of hyperleukocytosis to prevent complications
- Using hydroxyurea to lower WBC counts in hyperleukocytosis
- Preventing tumor lysis syndrome through hydration and control of uric acid production.
From the Research
White Blood Cells Basics
- White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are an essential part of the immune system, playing a crucial role in protecting the body against infections and diseases 2.
- The normal range for white blood cell count is between 4-10 × 10^9 cells per liter of blood 3.
- Abnormal white blood cell counts can be caused by various conditions, including infections, drugs, malignancies, and immune system disorders 4, 3.
Leukopenia
- Leukopenia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low white blood cell count, which can increase the risk of infections 4, 5.
- Leukopenia can be caused by reduced production of white blood cells, increased utilization and destruction, or a combination of both 4.
- Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) has been used to manage leukopenia and accelerate white blood cell count recovery 5, 6.
Importance of White Blood Cell Count
- White blood cell count is an important indicator of the body's immune function and can help diagnose various conditions, including infections and blood disorders 3, 2.
- Changes in white blood cell count can be caused by a range of factors, including benign and malignant conditions, and it is essential to interpret these changes correctly to provide adequate treatment 3.