What are white blood cells (WBCs) also called?

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White Blood Cells Are Called Leukocytes

White blood cells (WBCs) are also called leukocytes. 1, 2

Terminology and Definition

  • Leukocytes is the medical term for white blood cells (WBCs), and these terms are used interchangeably in clinical practice 2
  • Leukocytes are a vital component of the human immune system, responsible for fighting infections, resisting foreign pathogens, repairing damaged tissues, and regulating immune responses 3
  • The term "leukocytes" is also referred to as "defender cells" due to their role in fighting infections and diseases 4

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

  • Lymphocytes are NOT another name for WBCs - they are actually a subset of white blood cells, comprising 16-45% of the total WBC population 2
  • Splenocytes are NOT another name for WBCs - these are cells found specifically in the spleen, not a general term for circulating white blood cells
  • Plasma is NOT another name for WBCs - plasma is the liquid component of blood that makes up approximately 55% of blood volume and consists primarily of water (90-92%), proteins, and lipoproteins 1

Clinical Context

  • Leukocytes are identified by the unique molecular marker CD45 (leukocyte common antigen) 1
  • Normal leukocyte concentration in blood is 4-11 × 10³ cells/mL 1
  • Leukocytes measure 10-24 µm in diameter and are spherical in shape 1
  • The leukocyte population includes multiple subtypes: monocytes, lymphocytes (T- and B-cells), neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils 1

References

3
Research

Leukocyte analysis: Current status and future direction.

Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry, 2025

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.