CBC system

White Blood Cell Count (WBC)

WBC

The total number of white blood cells — your immune cells.

What is it

White Blood Cell Count (WBC) — in plain English.

WBC count measures the total number of white blood cells circulating in blood. These are the immune system's cellular components.

Why it's measured

What WBC can reveal.

WBC count has been used in evaluating infection, inflammation, and certain blood disorders in research and clinical practice.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

4.5 – 11.0 thousand/μL

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower WBC — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with infection, inflammation, stress, and certain blood disorders in research literature.

Lower

Has been associated with immune suppression, certain medications, and viral infections in research literature.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When WBC is typically run.

Part of standard complete blood count.

Related markers

Often measured alongside WBC.

Measured in

WBC is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
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This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.