What are white blood cells?
White blood cells or leukocytes are important cells of the immune system. They work to protect the body against foreign invaders and infection-causing organisms. They are derived from hematopoietic stem cells.
What is this test?
Differential leukocyte count or WBC differential is a laboratory test performed on blood sample to measure the percentage of different white blood cells present. It also helps to detect any abnormalities in the WBCs.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To detect inflammation in the body
- To detect infection in the body
- To diagnose anemia
- To diagnose leukemia
- To monitor bone marrow function
- If you are undergoing chemotherapy
- To confirm an abnormal CBC report.
- What is the difference between TLC and DLC?
TLC measures the total amount of WBCs present in the unit volume of blood while DLC measures the percentage of different types of WBCs.
- What do elevated levels of Neutrophils indicate?
Elevated levels of neutrophils may indicate bacterial infections.
- What do elevated levels of Lymphocytes indicate?
Elevated levels of lymphocytes may indicate mononucleosis and viral infections.
- What do elevated levels of Monocytes indicate?
Elevated levels of monocytes may indicate Malaria, tuberculosis, and fungal infections.
- What do elevated levels of Eosinophils indicate?
Elevated levels of Eosinophils may indicate an allergic reaction and autoimmune diseases.
- What do elevated levels of Basophils indicate?
Elevated levels of Basophils may indicate cancer, chickenpox, and hypothyroidism.
- Lymphocytes: 20-40%
- Neutrophils: 40-70%
- Eosinophils: 01-06%
- Basophils: 00-01%
- Monocytes: 02-10%
- Interpretation of test results:
Abnormal results may indicate an undergoing medical condition. Further testing may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.