Can dexamethasone cause an increase in white blood cells?

Under normal circumstances, dexamethasone may cause an increase in white blood cells. The specific details are as follows:

Dexamethasone belongs to the class of glucocorticoid drugs, which are endocrine hormones secreted by the zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex. Long-term clinical use of large amounts of glucocorticoids can lead to elevated white blood cell counts. First, glucocorticoids generally promote the proliferation of blood cells. Patients who use glucocorticoids long-term may experience increased total white blood cell count and increased neutrophil count, along with elevated platelet and red blood cell counts. In patients with normal hemoglobin levels, glucocorticoid use may further increase red blood cell counts, resulting in a ruddy complexion clinically referred to as "plethoric appearance."

The use of glucocorticoid drugs can elevate white blood cell counts. When the condition permits, after discontinuing glucocorticoids for anti-inflammatory purposes, the counts may return to normal. However, this could also be an adverse effect of adrenal glucocorticoids; therefore, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital.