Total Blood Leukocyte Count Chart

The total leukocyte count in normal blood ranges from 5,000 to 10,000 white cells per cubic millimeter. The term Leukocytosis signifies an abnormal increase in the number of circulating white blood cells. The term Leukopenia signifies an abnormal decrease in the number of white blood cells to fewer than 5,000 cells per cubic millimeter. In general, a leukocytosis may be regarded as a response of the bone marrow to an increased demand of leukocytes. The degree and type of response vary (1) with the intensity of the stimulus (which depends largely on the species of the infecting organism, on its virulence and on the location & extent of the area involved) (2) on the reacting power of the individual.  A mild infection may call forth for an insignificant response. If the infection is overwhelming or the reacting power of the marrow id seriously impaired, there may be no leukocytosis but even a leukopenia. 

In interpreting the leukocytic response to an infection however changes in differential count and qualitative alterations in leukocytes are more significant than an increase in their total number. The following table show their rise and fall inn different diseases & infections: