It can be quite daunting to learn about your child’s health, particularly when it comes to diagnostic procedures like the WBC blood test. When a parent’s child requires this test, many parents experience anxiety or confusion.
In an effort to make things easier, this article will define a WBC blood test and explain why your child might require one. We’ll also talk about the possible implications of the results, so you can feel more prepared and informed.
This guide aims to provide you with clear and helpful information about WBC testing, whether your child is scheduled for one or you’re just interested in learning more about it.
| Aspect | Description |
| What is WBC? | WBC stands for white blood cells, which help fight infections in the body. |
| Why test WBC? | To check for infections or monitor immune system health. |
| Normal range | Generally, 5,000 to 10,000 WBCs per microliter of blood is normal for children. |
| High WBC count | May indicate an infection, inflammation, or other health issues. |
| Low WBC count | Could suggest a weakened immune system or certain medical conditions. |
| Next steps | Consult a doctor for further testing or treatment if WBC count is abnormal. |
- What is it
- Norm and deviations
- Leukocytes are normal – decryption in the table
- Increased indicator
- Below normal
- Leukocyte formula
- Video on the topic
- General blood test in a child. What to look for?
- General blood test in children: important features
- What does a blood test mean
- Blood test in children: what parents should know about it
- Lymphocytosis in a blood test. What is dangerous?
- WBC blood test in children
What is it
The measurement of leukocytes in a child’s blood is known as WBC analysis. The meaning of "white blood cell count," which is implied by this abbreviation, is "the number of white blood cells." One of the components of a general blood test calculation is the WBC indicator. It is necessary to count all leukocytes and detect any rise or fall in their population.
The child’s immune status is determined by the WBC analysis, which aids the physician in diagnosing the condition or tracking the course of treatment.
White blood cell levels, which can reveal infections, inflammation, or other underlying conditions, are measured by a straightforward but vital tool called a WBC blood test for children, which aids medical professionals in evaluating the health of the immune system.
Norm and deviations
Leukocytes are vital blood cells that take part in immune responses and shield the youngster from harm. They develop in the bone marrow and a few other organs before traveling throughout the child’s body through the bloodstream. Children are shielded by these cells from toxins, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. Therefore, it’s critical that babies have an adequate supply of them to maintain their health, and any changes in the white blood cell count may indicate an illness.
Leukocytes are normal – decryption in the table
Which WBC indicator is regarded as normal will help you determine whether the child’s immunity is intact and whether the infant has any serious illnesses. For kids of various age groups, it will be as follows:
| In the first month of life | From 5.5 to 12.5 x 10 9 /l |
| From 1 month to 1 year | From 6 to 12 x 10 9 /l |
| From 1 year to 5 years | From 5 to 12 x 10 9 /l |
| 5 to 12 years old | From 4.5 to 10 x 10 9 /l |
| From 12 to 15 years old | From 4.3 to 9.5 x 10 9 /l |
| In children over 15 years old | From 4 to 9 x 10 9 /l |
The number of white blood cells can rise to 30 x 10 9 /l in the first few days following delivery, which is also regarded as normal; however, by the fifth day of life, the leukocyte count falls and does not surpass 15 x 10 9 /l.
Increased indicator
Leukocytosis is the term for the condition where the WBC indicator is elevated in the analysis. It is typical and could be a sign of recent physical exertion, the child being overheated or hypothermic the day before the test, or psycho-emotional stress.
As leukocytosis is also typical for a few hours following meals, it is essential to donate blood for WBC on an empty stomach.
- Bacterial infections.
- Acute surgical diseases.
- Chronic inflammatory processes.
- Viral infections.
- Allergic reaction.
- Fungal infection.
- Parasitic diseases.
- Autoimmune processes.
- Neoplasms.
- Severe bleeding or hemolytic anemia.
- Extensive burns.
- Injuries.
- Removal of the spleen.
- Leukemia.
Also, taking specific medications—such as hormonal drugs—can cause the WBC indicator to rise.
We suggest watching this video, in which renowned physician Komarovsky responds to inquiries concerning elevated leukocytes:
Below normal
A leukopenia diagnosis is made for the child if the WBC indicator falls. It happens when a child has:
- Exhaustion or hypovitaminosis.
- Poisoning.
- Bacterial infection.
- Viral disease in the recovery stage.
- Bone marrow is affected by chemicals, radiation, autoimmune process, tumor.
- Low blood pressure.
- Anaphylactic shock.
- Systemic disease.
- Diabetes mellitus or hypothyroidism.
- Increased spleen function.
- Tumor.
Following treatment with specific drugs, such as cytostatics, anticonvulsants, or antibiotics, a decrease in WBC is also possible.
Leukocyte formula
In addition to calculating the total leukocyte count in the child’s blood test, the various types of leukocytes are also identified and their count is expressed as a percentage of the total white blood cell count.
Among all leukocytes, neutrophils are the most prevalent. Since the primary function of these cells is to shield the body of the child from bacterial infections, an increase in them is typically indicative of an active inflammatory response or bacterial infection. A child’s lack of defense against bacteria makes a decrease in neutrophils dangerous. Neutropenia cannot be disregarded because if the analysis indicates that these cells are missing, the child runs the risk of "picking up" the illness.
Lymphocytes, which primarily protect children from viruses, are represented in the blood in a slightly smaller quantity. Viral infections are the most common cause of their leukogram increase. These cells create antibodies and eradicate viruses. Because of their critical role in the immune system, lymphopenia calls for a doctor to give it more attention.
Eosinophils make up a small percentage of all leukocytes. These cells’ primary job is to shield the child’s body from parasitic illnesses and allergens. Because of this, the doctor checks the child for worms and assesses his allergy history when their percentage rises. Severe infections and poisoning result in decreased eosinophil counts.
Monocytes are a subset of leukocytes. These cells rid the child’s body of dead tissue and damaged cells in addition to shielding it from infectious agents. Serious bone marrow lesions are characterized by a decrease in monocytes in the blood, while an increase in monocytes is seen in infections, tumors, and other pathologies.
Basophils are a different class of leukocytes that are found in the peripheral blood in trace amounts. Although their high percentage frequently suggests an allergy due to their involvement in allergic reactions, these cells are also present in various other pathologies.
Knowing what your child’s WBC (white blood cell) count is is a crucial first step in keeping an eye on their general health. Frequent blood testing can aid in the early detection of any possible problems, enabling prompt treatment and peace of mind.
A child’s WBC count falling outside of the normal range does not always indicate a serious issue. Fluctuations can be brought on by a number of things, including infections and stress. It’s crucial to speak with your healthcare professional in order to properly interpret the findings.
You can make sure your child gets the attention and assistance they require to flourish by keeping up with medical developments and collaborating closely with healthcare providers.
