What does a low wbc mean Meaning and Definition
What does a low wbc mean
Pronunciation
(Definition: /ˈwēzˌbēk/ is an abbreviation for “white blood cell count”, which refers to the number of white blood cells in a given volume of blood, and is often used as a measure of the immune system’s response to infection or inflammation, with a low wbc count indicating a weakened immune system.)
Part of Speech
Term
Definition
A low WBC count, also known as leukopenia, is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of white blood cells in the blood, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, medication, and certain medical conditions.
Examples
- A blood test revealed a low WBC count, indicating the patient had a weakened immune system.
- The doctor ordered a WBC count to determine the extent of the patient’s infection.
Etymology
The term “WBC” originated from the Latin words “weiss” meaning “white” and “blut” meaning “blood”, and was first used in the early 20th century to describe the different types of white blood cells.
Usage Notes
In medical contexts, WBC count is often used in combination with other laboratory tests to diagnose and monitor various conditions, such as infections, inflammation, and cancer.
Additional Information
A low WBC count can increase the risk of developing infections, as the immune system is unable to respond effectively to pathogens. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the low WBC count and using antibiotics to prevent or treat infections.
WBC counts can be classified into different ranges, including mild (4,000-7,000 cells/μL), moderate (2,000-4,000 cells/μL), and severe (less than 2,000 cells/μL) leukopenia.