A white blood cell (WBC) count of 100,000 per mm3 is a critically high level that constitutes a medical emergency due to the increased risk of severe complications.
Understanding High WBC Counts
A normal WBC count typically ranges from 4,500 to 11,000 WBCs per microliter (µL) of blood. A WBC count significantly exceeding this range, particularly reaching 100,000/mm3 (100 x 109/L), indicates a serious underlying condition.
Medical Emergency
According to the provided reference, white blood cell counts above 100,000 per mm3 (100 × 109 per L) represent a medical emergency because of the risk of brain infarction and hemorrhage.
Potential Risks
Elevated WBC counts at this level can lead to:
- Brain Infarction: Blockage of blood supply to the brain, leading to tissue damage.
- Hemorrhage: Bleeding, particularly in the brain.
Next Steps
If a WBC count of 100,000/mm3 is detected, immediate medical intervention is crucial to diagnose the underlying cause and prevent life-threatening complications.
