What does leukocytosis indicate regarding the white blood cell count?

Leukocytosis signifies that there is an elevation in the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the bloodstream. This condition often occurs in response to various factors, such as infections, inflammation, stress, or other medical conditions. A normal white blood cell count typically ranges from approximately 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter of blood. When the count exceeds this range, it is referred to as leukocytosis.

The presence of leukocytosis can be clinically significant as it may indicate the body's response to an underlying pathology, such as an acute infection or other inflammatory processes. Therefore, the presence of an elevated white blood cell count is a key indicator used by healthcare professionals for diagnosing and managing various conditions.