Monocitáris

Monocitáris refers to a condition characterized by an elevated count of monocytes in the blood. Monocytes are a type of white blood cell, a crucial component of the immune system, responsible for phagocytosis, which means they engulf and digest cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, cancer cells, and anything else that does not have the type of proteins specific to naturally occurring body cells. They also play a role in presenting antigens to lymphocytes, initiating an adaptive immune response.

An elevated monocyte count, known as monocytosis, is not a disease in itself but rather a sign that the body is responding to something. Common causes of monocytosis include infections, particularly chronic infections like tuberculosis, viral infections, and certain fungal or parasitic infections. It can also be associated with inflammatory conditions such as autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, and certain types of cancer, especially leukemias and lymphomas. Recovery from certain illnesses or surgeries can also temporarily lead to increased monocyte levels.

Diagnosing the cause of monocytosis typically involves a complete blood count (CBC) with differential, which quantifies the different types of white blood cells. Further investigations may be necessary depending on the clinical presentation and other findings, potentially including imaging studies, serological tests for infections, or bone marrow examination. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying condition responsible for the elevated monocyte count.