a. If you had a severe infection, would you expect your WBC count to be closest to 5000, 10,000, or 15,000/μl? b. What is this condition called?

Verified step by step guidance

1. insert step 1: Understand that WBC (white blood cell) count is an indicator of the body's immune response.
2. insert step 2: Recognize that a normal WBC count ranges from approximately 4,000 to 11,000/μl.
3. insert step 3: Consider that during a severe infection, the body increases WBC production to fight off pathogens.
4. insert step 4: Determine that a WBC count significantly higher than the normal range, such as 15,000/μl, is expected during a severe infection.
5. insert step 5: Identify that this condition, where there is an elevated WBC count, is called leukocytosis.

Key Concepts

White Blood Cell (WBC) Count

The white blood cell count is a measure of the number of white blood cells in a volume of blood, typically expressed in cells per microliter (μl). Normal WBC counts range from about 4,000 to 11,000/μl. An elevated WBC count, known as leukocytosis, often indicates an immune response to infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions.

Leukocytosis

Leukocytosis is the medical term for an increased number of white blood cells in the bloodstream. This condition is commonly associated with infections, as the body produces more WBCs to fight off pathogens. Depending on the severity of the infection, WBC counts can rise significantly, often exceeding 10,000/μl, and in severe cases, reaching 15,000/μl or higher.

Infection Response

The infection response is the body's immune reaction to pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. When an infection occurs, the immune system activates, leading to the production and mobilization of white blood cells to the site of infection. This response is crucial for eliminating the invading organisms and is often reflected in laboratory tests, such as elevated WBC counts.