Leukocytosis

Basics

Description

Leukocytosis refers to a total white blood cell (WBC) count above the normal range for age.

Risk Factors

  • Very low-birth-weight neonates
  • Immunodeficiencies or immunocompromised states
  • Inflammatory disorders
  • Autoimmune disorders
ALERT
Children with trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) have an increased risk of developing transient myeloproliferative disorder (TMD) or leukemoid reactions.

Pathophysiology

Leukocytosis results from increased marrow production, demargination, prolonged cell survival, and/or defective extravascularization in response to external stimuli or, less commonly, from an underlying marrow disorder.

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