MLT GlobeWhite blood cell count (WBC)
Hematology · also called Total leukocyte count, TLC, Leukocyte count
What it measures
Counts all white cells per unit of blood. It is used to detect infection, inflammation, leukemia and marrow suppression and to monitor chemotherapy.
Specimen and preparation
- Specimen: Whole blood (EDTA)
- Tube: Lavender top
- Preparation: Exercise, stress and smoking can raise the count slightly.
Reference range
| Group | Range |
|---|---|
| Adult | 4.0–11.0 ×10⁹/L |
| Newborn | 9.0–30.0 ×10⁹/L |
| Child (1–6 y) | 5.0–15.0 ×10⁹/L |
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.
Causes of high values
- Bacterial infection
- Inflammation, trauma, burns
- Corticosteroid use or stress
- Leukemias and myeloproliferative neoplasms
- Smoking
Causes of low values
- Viral infections
- Chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Aplastic anemia
- Autoimmune disease (e.g. SLE)
- B12/folate deficiency
Method
Impedance or flow cytometric counting on a hematology analyzer
Good to know
×10⁹/L equals ×10³/µL. Nucleated red cells can inflate the count on some analyzers. Counts below about 1.0 or above 50 ×10⁹/L are commonly critical (limits vary by lab).
Related tests
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