Does cancer cause elevated white blood cells?

It is a well-known fact that cancer can wreak havoc on the body, causing all sorts of problems. One common question that people have is whether or not cancer can cause elevated white blood cells (WBCs). In this article, we will explore this question and try to provide some answers.

What Are White Blood Cells?

Before we dive into the relationship between cancer and WBCs, let’s take a quick look at what these cells are. WBCs are part of your immune system and play an important role in defending your body against infections and other diseases. There are several types of WBCs, each with its own unique function.

What Is Cancer?

Cancer occurs when abnormal cells start growing out of control in the body. These cells form tumors that can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body (metastasize). Many different types of cancers exist, but one thing they all have in common is their ability to cause health problems.

Can Cancer Cause Elevated White Blood Cells?

The answer to this question isn’t cut-and-dried. While it’s true that some types of cancer can lead to increased levels (counts)of WBCs, others may actually decrease them instead(leukopenia) . Here’s a closer look at both scenarios:

Types Of Cancers That Can Increase The Number Of White Blood Cells

  • Leukemia: This type of cancer affects blood cell production in bone marrow; It leads eventually towards the excessive activation/production/filtration/division/growth(proliferation)  of immature /adolescent lymphocytes(cells within immune system)
  • Lymphoma: Also affecting lymphatic tissue like leukemia as it occurs upon nodes or even spleen ;
  • Other cancers such as breast, lung or any solid tumors easily secrete molecules most commonly known as cytokines, during which along with its malignant functionality, it might also attract white blood cells causing elevated count.

Types Of Cancers That Can Decrease White Blood Cells

  • Bone marrow cancer(myeloma): Blood cell productions get highly affected leading towards a decrease in overall WBCs within the body.
  • Other chemotherapies cause damages to the immune system thus creating leukopenia(Decreased Total WBC Count)

Symptoms Of Elevated White Blood Cells In Cancer Cases?

It’s important to note that not everyone who has cancer will experience an increase of WBCs. However, here are some symptoms that may occur:

  • Fever as accumulation of these blood cells create havoc and scatter heat
  • Immediate swelling or pain due to rapid increase of their population 
  • Fainting/Lethargy often occurs following excessive multiplication/efficiency optimization by white blood cells on specific areas

These symptoms generally indicate something unusual happening inside your body regardless if it is isolated or carried out due to Cancerous Implications.

How Are Elevated WBC Levels Detected And Treated?

White blood cell counts can be measured through simple testing such as a Complete blood count(Can be performed at any hospital laboratory). From there doctors determine if higher levels exist compared to normal values for different age groups.Generally Increased  Wbc levels are well handled using chemotherapy or targeted immunotherapy focusing more towards macrophages rather than basophils .

It’s essential for doctors and patients together decide treatment course. The Underlying cause behind increased wbc / lowered thereof should always be figured which ultimately clears up suspicion , anxieties making way easier decision course options(chemos /radiation etc).

Conclusion

To sum things up: yes, certain types of cancers can lead to an elevation in your total number of white blood cells whereas others may even lead towards lowering them . Proper examination and lab tests for determining range of these cells within your blood is vital in determining your health status. It’s still best to see a doctor regularly and discuss any concerns you may have about your health, as early detection increases chances of recovery from such complex diseases like cancer.

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