Leukozytenzählung

Leukozytenzählung, also known as white blood cell count (WBC count), is a medical laboratory test that measures the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in a sample of blood. White blood cells are a crucial part of the immune system, defending the body against infections and diseases.

The test is typically performed as part of a complete blood count (CBC). A small sample of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm, and sent to a laboratory. There, automated equipment or manual microscopy is used to count the number of leukocytes per unit volume of blood, often expressed as cells per microliter (µL) or as a percentage of the total blood volume.

Elevated white blood cell counts, known as leukocytosis, can indicate the presence of infection, inflammation, stress, or certain types of leukemia. Conversely, a low white blood cell count, called leukopenia, can suggest bone marrow disorders, autoimmune diseases, severe infections, or side effects of certain medications like chemotherapy.

Interpreting the leukozytenzählung requires consideration of the patient's overall health status, symptoms, and other laboratory results. A differential white blood cell count, which breaks down the number of each specific type of white blood cell (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils), can provide more specific diagnostic information. This test is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions.