Table of Contents
ToggleA low WBC count is called leukopenia. If my wbc is 3.5, it means I have leukopenia, which may be the result of:
– A problem with the production of WBCs in the bone marrow
– Autoimmune disorders
– Health conditions affecting the liver or spleen
– Cancer or cancer treatment
– Psychological stress
– Certain medications(3)
Remember that a white blood cell count is one portion of a CBC and typically can’t diagnose any of these conditions alone. If your WBC count is abnormal, doctors will probably suggest follow-up testing to determine the cause. For example, if my wbc is 3.5, a WBC differential test may provide more information about the levels of specific leukocytes in my blood (3).
* If you think my wbc is 3.5 and what should I do? You can enter your CBC test results online and get a personalized interpretation, including your condition in each test, definition, reasons for increased or decreased results, dietary and lifestyle recommendations, potential treatments, drug interactions, etc.
White blood cells (WBC) are a part of the immune system that can be found in circulation for at least a period of their life. Their normal concentration in the blood varies between 4 and 10 (×109/L). They play a most important role in phagocytosis and immunity and therefore in defense against infection (1)
A white blood count measures the number of white cells in your blood. Its normal ranges vary slightly among laboratories, but in general are:
· Adult men 5 -10 109 /L
· Adult women 4.5 – 11
· Children 5 – 10 (2)
Abnormal results
Leukocytosis or high white blood cell is commonly a sign of inflammatory response such as infection, but it can also occur during parasitic infections or cancers such as leukemia. Other causes include:
– Smoking cigarettes
– Injuries that damage tissue, such as burns
– Allergies like asthma or hay fever
– Pregnancy
– Certain medications
References: