There's no single "best" treatment for a high white blood cell count (WBC), also known as leukocytosis, because the underlying cause dictates the appropriate approach. Treatment focuses on addressing the root problem rather than the elevated WBC count itself.
Understanding the Causes of High WBC
A high WBC count is a sign, not a disease. It indicates your body is fighting something, which could range from a simple infection to a serious condition like leukemia. Some common causes include:
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections trigger your body to produce more white blood cells to fight them off.
- Inflammation: Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can also elevate WBC counts.
- Injury: Trauma or injury can lead to a temporary increase in WBCs.
- Immune System Disorders: Autoimmune diseases and other immune system problems can cause an abnormally high WBC count.
- Certain Cancers: Leukemia, lymphoma, and other cancers can significantly raise WBC levels.
Treatment Approaches Based on the Underlying Cause
The treatment for a high WBC count directly depends on its cause:
- Infections: Antibiotics are often prescribed for bacterial infections; antiviral medications are used for viral infections; and antifungal medications treat fungal infections.
- Inflammation: Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids, may help manage inflammation and lower WBC counts.
- Severe Conditions (e.g., Leukemia): Specialized therapies, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or bone marrow transplant, are used to treat cancers causing high WBC counts. In some cases, medications like hydroxyurea (Hydrea®) may be used to rapidly reduce very high WBC counts until a diagnosis is confirmed.
Example: Infection-Induced High WBC
If a high WBC count is caused by a bacterial infection like pneumonia, treatment would involve antibiotics to eliminate the infection. As the infection clears, the WBC count typically returns to normal.
Example: Leukemia-Induced High WBC
If elevated WBC counts are due to leukemia (like chronic myeloid leukemia), treatment involves targeted therapies or chemotherapy to control the cancerous cells and lower the WBC count. The specific treatment will depend on the type and stage of leukemia.
Important Note: Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of a high white blood cell count. Self-treating can be dangerous. They will conduct tests to determine the underlying cause before recommending a treatment plan.
