SEC S20W6 || Hematology [White Blood Cells - Module 6]

Today we are going to talk about white blood cells after taking time to go through this interesting class. Let's dive in, shall we?

Define White Blood Cells

White blood cells (WBC's) are also called leukocytes meaning leuko--white and cyte--cell. These cells serve as the body's own soldiers, constantly monitoring your bloodstream to protect it from external threats such as bacteria, viruses, and infections. White blood cells are found in the lymphatic system and blood and, in contrast to red blood cells, which are specialized in the movement of oxygen, are in charge of identifying threats to your body and launching an attack when needed to neutralize dangerous pathogens before they cause significant damage.

White blood cells, which make up 1% of your blood, are larger and less frequent than red blood cells. They also have a unique nucleus and an uneven, transparent shape. They are produced in the bone marrow and kept in the lymph and blood tissues.
White blood cells are made of different types, each of them with its own specific function.

Whether it is healing wounds, fighting infections or creating antibiotics, without them our bodies would be vulnerable to infections and disease. A healthy adult's white blood cell count ranges from 4000 to 11,000 per microliter of blood.

The Modern Biology Textbook, written by Sarojini T. Ramalingam, makes reference to this comprehensive definition.

Make a diagram of the white series

Above is a diagram of the white series showing the parent cell (hematopoietic stem cell) and it's types. The different types of White blood cells include;

1. Granulocytes: These are White blood cells that contain granules with protein. They are the first responders in our immune system and is made up of 3 types of granulocyte cells;

• Basophils: They are rare and act like the body's response system during allergic reactions. They also release chemicals to help control inflammation.

• Eosinophils: They are responsible for response to infection from parasites like worms and play a major role in defending the immune system against invaders.

• Neutrophils: They are the most common WBC's. They act as scavengers and specialise in destroying bacteria and fungi that may be present in the body.

1. Monocytes: They make up 2-8% of white blood cells in our body. They act as macrophages, cleaning up dead cells and destroying any foreign substances that cause infections. They also make sure the body heals after injuries.

1. Lymphocytes: These are specialised white blood cells that include;

• T Cells: Also called T-lymphocytes. They directly attract and remove infected and cancer cells.

• B Cells : Also called B-lymphocytes. They produce antibodies that help the immune system fight invaders like bacteria and viruses.

• Natural Killer Cells: Also called NK Cells. They are responsible for attacking and destroying viral or abnormal cells quickly.

Neutrophilia vs Neutropenia

Description	Differences
Neutrophilia	This is when there is an abnormally high number of neutrophil in the blood.
Neutropenia	This is when there is an abnormally low number of neutrophil in the blood.

Neutrophil Count

Neutrophilia	Has a neutrophil count of over 7,000 per microliter of blood.
Neutropenia	contains smaller than 1,500 neutrophils per microliter of blood.

Pixabay

Causes

Neutrophilia	Caused by Bacterial infections, inflammation, physical stress or smoking.
Neutropenia	Occurs due to Viral infections, chemotherapy, and bone disease.

Symptoms

Neutrophilia	frequently without symptoms but may show signs of fever or swelling due to inflammation.
Neutropenia	Due to a weakened vulnerable system, symptoms could include fatigue, fever, or intermittent infections.

Factors associated with risk

Neutrophilia	Can increase the threat of severe inflammation.
Neutropenia	Increases the threat of severe infections, including respiratory and skin infections.

Duration

Neutrophilia	When the infection or its cause is treated, it generally goes down temporarily.
Neutropenia	It may be more severe or connected to a very serious bone marrow problem.

Treatment

Neutrophilia	can be managed by treating the root cause, which is similar to using antibiotics for treating an infection.
Neutropenia	may include taking medicines, or indeed quitting dangerous substances like alcohol.

Explain a case related to the white series

Case study	Chemotherapy induced Neutropenia
Patient name:	Peter
Age:	40
Gender	Male

Clinical History:

The patient was presented with fatigue, frequent fever, chills and recurrent infections from wound and inflammation that has refused to heal.

Lab Examination:

The patient was asked to carry out series if blood tests including a full blood count. When the results were out, it was revealed that Peter had very low neutrophil cell count.

Lab Results:*

White blood cell count	2,600uL (which is low) compared to the normal that is 4000-11,000uL
Neutrophil count	800uL (very very low) compared to the normal which is 1500-7000.
Hemoglobin count	16.0g/dL which was normal
Platelets count	200,000 which was also normal

Medical Diagnosis:*

The doctor concluded that Peter had neutropenia probably induced by chemotherapy since he was recently receiving treatment for cancer. These Neutrophils count has been significantly reduced because of the radiation exposure from chemo. Even though chemo's job is to reduce cancer cells, it can also affect the bone marrow that produces these Neutrophils.

Because of the low neutrophil count, Peter's body became vulnerable to infections. And because his body kept fighting the infections, it lead to his constant fevers and tiredness. Apparently, his immune system became weak.

Treatment:*

Peter's doctor prescribed medications like granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) to help his bone marrow produce more neutrophils and reduce the risk of infections during chemotherapy. He was also encouraged to maintain a good hygiene and avoid crowds to prevent him from getting more infections.

By sticking to all these guidelines, the patient will be able to recover and his Neutrophils count will be back to normal.