What does an increased count of neutrophils indicate?
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An increased count of neutrophils, also known as neutrophilia, is a type of white blood cell differential count that indicates the presence of infection, inflammation, or stress. Neutrophils are the first line of defense against bacterial and fungal infections. When the body is infected, it releases signals that cause the bone marrow to produce and release more neutrophils to fight off the infection.
Common conditions associated with an increased neutrophil count include bacterial infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, and urinary tract infections. In addition, autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, acute gout, and vasculitis can also lead to neutrophilia. Trauma, surgery, burns, and physical stress can cause neutrophilia as well.
It is important to note that a high count of neutrophils alone is not enough to conclusively diagnose a condition. Further testing and evaluation are usually necessary to determine the underlying cause of neutrophilia.