Will a routine blood test show abnormalities in cases of white lung?

Apr 16, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Blood tests for white lung disease generally show abnormalities. These may manifest as increased neutrophil percentage, elevated white blood cell count, or normal to slightly elevated white blood cell levels. It may also stimulate hematopoietic stem cells to produce white blood cells, leading to decreased hemoglobin levels. Additionally, it may cause a sharp increase in C-reactive protein, activating complement pathways and enhancing phagocytosis by phagocytes, thereby exerting opsonization effects.

Complete blood count (CBC) tests in patients with white lung are generally abnormal, such as abnormal white blood cell count, decreased hemoglobin, and elevated C-reactive protein. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Abnormal white blood cell count

If white lung is caused by bacterial infection, CBC results may show increased percentage of neutrophils and elevated white blood cell count. If it is caused by viral or mycoplasma infection, the white blood cell count may be normal or slightly elevated.

2. Decreased hemoglobin

Following the onset of white lung, acute systemic inflammation may stimulate hematopoietic stem cells to produce more white blood cells, which can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels.

3. Elevated C-reactive protein

White lung may also cause a sharp increase in C-reactive protein, which activates the complement system and enhances phagocytosis by immune cells, helping to clear pathogens invading the body as well as damaged, necrotic, or apoptotic tissue cells.

In addition, platelet changes may also occur. Patients are advised to promptly visit the respiratory medicine department of a hospital for proper diagnosis and standardized treatment to improve their condition.


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