Leucocytosis : Initial approach in primary care

Leucocytosis, defined as an elevation of the white cell count above the typical laboratory reference range (generally >10 or 11 x 10^9/L), can signify a variety of conditions ranging from normal physiological responses to more severe pathological states. This condition encompasses a broad differential diagnosis, including reactions to acute infections, active inflammation, acute stress events like bleeding or acute coronary syndrome (ACS), as well as more severe conditions such as hematological malignancies like acute leukemias and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Additionally, a high white cell count may also be observed in solid malignancies, with steroid use, and in smokers.

Leucocytosis refers to an increase in the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood, surpassing the normal upper limit. Typically, this threshold varies slightly depending on the laboratory reference, but it is generally defined as a white blood...