We usually consider a high WBC count or leukocytosis to be anything above 11,000 cells per μL in an adult. Therefore, a white blood cell count of 22,000 means leukocytosis, which is a normal immune response and isn’t always a cause for concern. Most of the time, it means you have an infection or inflammation in your body.
However, sometimes a high white blood cell count could show something more serious, such as leukemia. Other causes may include:
– Excessive physical or emotional stress (such as fever, injury, or surgery).
– Burns.
– Immune system disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
– Thyroid problems.
– Dental caries (cavities).
– Certain medicines, including lithium, corticosteroids, and beta-agonists.
– Allergies.
– Splenectomy (removal of your spleen).
– Smoking.
– Obesity.
– Lymphoma.
– Bone marrow disorders such as polycythemia vera or myelofibrosis. (3)
Treating the underlying condition usually reduces your white blood cell count.
If you want to know a white blood cell count of 22,000 means 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, called leukocytes, are a part of your immune system that protects your body from infection. These cells circulate in your blood and respond to injury or illness (1).
A white blood cell count (WBC) count is a blood test to measure the number of white cells in your blood. The normal range varies from person to person, but based on age, is:
· Newborn Infant 13,000–38,000 per μL
· 2-week-old infant 5,000–20,000
· Adult 4,500–11,000
Note that WBC levels are different in pregnant women. In the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, it can be 5,800 to 13,200 per cubic millimeter (2).
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