[Nonsymptomatic leukocytosis].

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Clinical Pathology

Background:

• Leukocytosis, an elevated white blood cell count, is frequently encountered in clinical settings.
• It can result from an increase in neutrophils or other leukocyte populations.
• Causes range from primary blood disorders like leukemia to reactive conditions such as infections and inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the etiological spectrum of leukocytosis.
• To describe the diagnostic approach for uncertain cases.
• To highlight emergency situations like leukostasis.

Main Methods:

• Review of etiological factors for leukocytosis.
• Description of diagnostic work-up including differential blood counts, laboratory tests, bone marrow examination, microbiology, and imaging.
• Identification of emergency criteria for leukostasis.

Main Results:

• Leukocytosis commonly arises from reactive causes like infections, smoking, inflammation, or drugs.
• Primary causes include leukemia and lymphomas.
• Moderate leukocytosis without a clear trigger warrants observation.

Conclusions:

• The differential blood count is central to diagnosing the cause of leukocytosis.
• Diagnostic work-up is guided by clinical context and initial findings.
• Leukostasis is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention, such as leukapheresis.