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Leukocytosis is caused by an overproduction of white blood cells due to infection, inflammation, stress, medication, immune reactions, or bone marrow disorders. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, and weakness. Treatment varies depending on the cause. A CBC can diagnose it, and treatment may include steroids, antibiotics, or bone marrow transplants.
Leukocytosis is a condition that occurs when the bone marrow produces too many white blood cells. This condition can occur due to a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection or due to the inflammation that often occurs with disorders such as osteoarthritis. Physical or emotional stress, medication side effects, strong immune reactions, or bone marrow disorders can also cause this disorder. Symptoms can vary depending on the cause of the disorder but often include fever, fatigue, and weakness. Treatment may also vary, depending on the cause of the disorder.
A number of health factors can contribute to an increase in white blood cell count. Abnormally high white blood cell counts often occur due to infection, as white blood cells are the immune cells responsible for fighting bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens within the body. Inflammation, such as that caused by osteoarthritis, can also lead to increased production of white blood cells. Damage to body tissue often causes a similar immune reaction, as do allergies or asthma.
Extreme emotional and physical stress can also lead to an increase in white blood cell count. Some prescription drugs can cause leukocytosis as a side effect. Bone marrow disorders, including leukemia, thrombocytopenia, and myelofibrosis, can lead to increased white blood cell counts.
Symptoms of leukocytosis can vary widely, depending on the underlying cause of the disease. Some symptoms, however, can occur regardless of the cause. These symptoms include excessive bleeding or bruising, fever, lethargy and weakness, dizziness, sweating, and fainting. Tingling can occur in the legs, arms or abdomen. Vision problems, confusion, and difficulty breathing may occur, along with weight loss and decreased appetite.
A complete blood count (CBC) can often be used to definitively diagnose leukocytosis by pinpointing a patient’s white blood cell count. A peripheral blood smear (PBS) may be needed if bone marrow disorders are suspected. These tests can help doctors look for abnormalities in white blood cells.
Treatment usually seeks to address the underlying cause of the high white counts. In some cases, such as with an infection, no treatment is needed, as the condition generally resolves on its own when the infection is treated or runs its course. Steroids, antibiotics, and medications to reduce blood uric acid levels can help treat the problem. Where bone marrow disorders are the cause of leukocytosis, bone marrow transplants, blood transfusions, and chemotherapy can be used as treatments.
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