The normal range for white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood is 4,500 to 11,000 WBCs per microliter (4.5 to 11.0 × 109/L). This range can vary slightly depending on the lab and the specific test performed.
Important note: Different labs may use different units of measurement, which can affect the reported values.
Factors affecting the WBC count:
- Age: Normal WBC ranges vary with age.
- Sex: Normal WBC ranges can vary slightly between men and women.
High or low WBC counts can indicate various health conditions, including:
- High WBC count (leukocytosis): Infections, inflammation, leukemia, stress, or certain medications.
- Low WBC count (leukopenia): Certain infections, autoimmune disorders, bone marrow disorders, or some medications.
It's important to note that a high or low WBC count alone doesn't necessarily diagnose a specific condition. Your doctor will consider your complete medical history, physical examination, and other test results to determine the cause.
