COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 119
lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils4each
playing a key role in defending the body. Analyzing the differential
helps pinpoint the cause behind abnormal WBC counts.
White Blood Cell (Leukocyte) Count
White blood cells (Leukocytes) are the body’s frontline defenders,
fighting infections and responding to foreign invaders. They
neutralize harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses by engulfing and
destroying them. Circulating for 13 to 20 days, WBCs protect the
body through phagocytosis and by producing antibodies to
strengthen the immune defense.
When to run this test:
● To provide a more precise assessment of immune system
function.
● To determine the cause of an elevated or decreased total
white blood cell count, such as bacterial or viral infections
and inflammation.
Range
Units
Conventional
3.4 - 11.3 x10³/uL
Optimal / Functional
5.0 - 8.0 x10³/uL
Alarm
< 3.0 or > 13.0 x10³/μL
Neutrophils
Neutrophils are the body’s first responders to bacterial and
pyrogenic infections, making up the largest and most vital group
of white blood cells. As frontline defenders, they quickly target
and neutralize harmful microbes through phagocytosis4engulfing
and destroying invaders.
An elevated neutrophil count usually indicates a bacterial
infection but can also suggest acute inflammation, stress, or
119
