What does it mean when white blood cell count is normal, but neutrophils are high and lymphocytes are low?

Apr 21, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Heyang

Introduction

Normal white blood cell count with high neutrophils and low lymphocytes is generally caused by bacterial infections, lymphatic system diseases, or hematological disorders. When the white blood cell differential shows elevated neutrophils and reduced lymphocytes, it is important to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment. If abnormalities in the white blood cell differential persist during treatment, further evaluation is necessary.

Under normal circumstances, a normal white blood cell count with elevated neutrophils and reduced lymphocytes is generally caused by bacterial infections, lymphatic system disorders, or hematological diseases. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Bacterial Infections

Neutrophils play an important role in combating bacterial infections. Therefore, when the body is invaded by certain pathogens, the number of neutrophils increases rapidly to respond to the infection. Meanwhile, lymphocyte counts may also rise during some pathogen infections. However, certain bacterial infections—such as mycoplasma infection or tuberculosis—can lead to decreased lymphocyte counts and increased neutrophil counts, resulting in high neutrophils and low lymphocytes.

2. Lymphatic System Diseases

Diseases affecting the bone marrow or lymphatic system may also alter the differential white blood cell count, leading to elevated neutrophils and reduced lymphocytes. For example, acute or chronic leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and similar conditions can all cause abnormalities in white blood cells.

3. Hematological Diseases

The side effects of certain medications may also change the white blood cell differential, causing increased neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes. For instance, corticosteroids, antibiotics, and anticancer drugs may affect the immune system and consequently alter white blood cell proportions.

In addition to the above factors, this condition could also be induced by stress-related medications. When a differential count shows elevated neutrophils and reduced lymphocytes, it is essential to identify the underlying cause and implement appropriate treatment. If abnormal white blood cell differentials persist during treatment, prompt medical consultation is recommended for further diagnosis and management.

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