White blood cells (WBCs) refer to a group of cells in the blood, primarily including monocytes, lymphocytes, and neutrophils. The normal range for WBCs is (4-10) × 10⁹/L. Levels above this range are termed leukocytosis. Elevated WBCs do not necessarily indicate leukemia. Common causes of high WBC counts in blood tests include inflammatory infections, bleeding, poisoning, and severe burns. Extremely high levels may indicate leukemia.
Typically, leukemia symptoms primarily involve anemia and related manifestations such as weakness, pallor, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Patients may experience easy bruising or bleeding, including bleeding gums and nosebleeds.Frequent infections, such as sore throat, bronchitis accompanied by headache, low-grade fever, mouth pain, and rash. Enlarged lymph nodes, particularly in the throat, armpits, and groin. Discomfort felt under the left rib cage.In severe cases, sudden high fever, confusion, inability to speak or move limbs may occur. Diagnosing leukemia requires further tests, such as bone marrow examination, to confirm. Leukemia is a malignant clonal disorder of hematopoietic stem cells. Therefore, an elevated white blood cell count in a blood test does not necessarily indicate leukemia. If you suspect any of the above leukemia symptoms, it is best to undergo a comprehensive examination at a hospital to confirm the diagnosis and receive targeted treatment.If elevated white blood cells result from inflammation, prompt treatment with sensitive antibacterial and anti-inflammatory medications is essential. Once the inflammation is controlled, white blood cell counts typically return to normal. Numerous physiological factors can cause a temporary increase in total white blood cells. Examples include: strenuous exercise; physical labor; prolonged exposure to cold air in winter; and even after a large meal or shower, which often leads to a slight rise in white blood cell count. However, elevations caused by these factors do not require intervention.