Which condition is commonly associated with leukocytosis?

Leukocytosis, which is an elevated white blood cell (WBC) count, is often associated with various physiological and pathological conditions that activate the immune response. Stress is a common trigger for leukocytosis as it can stimulate the release of cortisol and other hormones that lead to an increased production of white blood cells by the bone marrow. This response serves as a protective mechanism, preparing the body to respond to potential threats, such as infection or injury.

In contrast, other conditions mentioned may not typically result in leukocytosis. For instance, anemia generally involves a reduction in red blood cells rather than an increase in white blood cells, and while it can have various underlying causes, it is not directly linked to an elevated WBC count. Diabetes can be associated with infections that might lead to leukocytosis, but it does not inherently cause elevated white blood cells. Chronic kidney disease can have several complications, including an impaired immune response, which could potentially lead to varying WBC counts, but it does not typically result in the leukocytosis that stress does.

Therefore, stress being a physiological state that triggers a robust immune response explains its strong association with leukocytosis.