White blood cells (LPK)

Understanding the marker

White blood cells are part of the immune system. This test counts them together; a differential count gives separate results for the different cell types.

The total white cell count is part of the blood count. Infections, medicines and other conditions can change it. A high or low count alone does not establish a diagnosis or the urgency of an abnormality.

What does high White blood cells (LPK) mean?

A high white-cell count can occur as part of an immune response, but the total does not identify its cause. The cell-type breakdown, other blood tests, symptoms and previous results help explain the pattern.

What does low White blood cells (LPK) mean?

A low total white-cell count needs to be read with the individual cell types, symptoms and any medicines. The degree of reduction matters, and a marked change or symptoms can require prompt assessment.