Introduction
Blood tests are often used to check how well the body is working. One such test is the total leucocyte count. This number shows how the body’s defence system is responding to everyday health changes, infections, or inflammation.
Doctors may suggest this test during regular health check-ups or when someone has symptoms like fever, tiredness, or frequent infections. Understanding this helps to decide whether the immune system is working normally or needs closer attention.
In this blog, we’ll look at what total leucocyte count means, its normal range, and what higher or lower values can indicate.
What is TLC?
The Total Leucocyte Count simply measures the number of white blood cells that are present within your blood. Leucocytes actually mean white blood cells, or those cells whose function is to protect the body against infections, allergens, and invasion by foreign materials. It is frequently prescribed by doctors in the form of a TLC blood test as a way to gauge immunity and detect the early signs of illness.
White Blood Cells Function
The main task of WBC is to safeguard the body from invaders. They detect pathogenic microorganisms, kill virally infected cells, and promote immune memory. Each type of white blood cells has some assigned duties, which means that their balance is crucial for maintaining good health.
TLC Normal Range by Age & Gender
- The TLC normal range for healthy adults is falling between 4,000 and 11,000 cells per microlitre of blood.
- Children may have counts that are somewhat higher.
- The normal range of white blood cells in females is the same as in males, although there may be slight variations based on the change in the level of their hormones.
- Your doctor interprets results in concert with symptoms, age, and medical history to determine what’s normal for you.
Importance of TLC Test
A TLC test helps doctors determine the overall number of different types of white blood cells in a person’s blood.
- Early detection of infection
- Monitor immune disorders
- Assess response to treatment
- Diagnose inflammatory disorders or disorders of the bone marrow
It is one of the simple, yet powerful, indicators of general health. If you’re looking for the best laboratory in Coimbatore for the TLC test, Clarity imaging is recommended.
What High TLC Indicates
An elevated WBC count usually indicates that your body is fighting something. Common causes include the following:
- Infections of bacterial or viral origin
- Tissue injury or inflammation
- Stress or vigorous exercise
- Certain drugs
Symptoms of high TLC in the blood can be fever, fatigue, body pain, or swelling, depending on the underlying condition.
What low TLC indicates
A low count of white blood cells is a case of reduced immune defense. The causes of a low WBC might include:
- Viral infections
- Bone marrow disorders
- Autoimmune diseases
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
Individuals with low counts may also have recurring infections, or their healing could be slower; they might generally feel weak.
Types of White Blood Cells & Their Functions
Understanding the types of WBC aids in decoding TLC reports.
- Neutrophils: destroy bacteria
- Lymphocytes: Provide for immunological memory and virus defence
- Monocytes: clean up cells that have been damaged
- Eosinophils: Involved in allergies and parasitic infections
- Basophils: Release chemicals during immune responses
The life span of WBC is variable, from hours to years, according to the type and function.
How TLC Test is Carried Out
It requires only a small blood sample, often taken from a vein in the arm. In most cases, no fasting is required, and results are usually ready within a few hours to a day.
Who Should Undergo a TLC Test and When
The following are some conditions for which this test may be advised:
- Recurring infections
- Fever of unknown origin
- Chronic tiredness
- Ongoing treatment for immune or blood disorders
How to Read TLC Test Report
A TLC report includes total white blood cell values and, where applicable, a differential count. Physicians compare the normal TLC count with your symptoms and other test results before drawing conclusions.
Treatment for High & Low TLC Levels
Treatment has to be directed toward the cause:
- Infections may necessitate antibiotics or antivirals.
- Supplements are used to correct nutritional deficiencies.
- Immune disorders may require specialized care.
- Lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, and medical follow-up are the keys.
Possible Complications if Untreated
Results from ignoring abnormal TLC levels may be recurrent infections, delayed diagnosis of serious illnesses, or complications related to immune dysfunction.
TLC Test Price in India
The test is inexpensive and therefore widely available, costing between ₹150 to ₹400 in different labs and geographies.
Conclusion
Total Leucocyte Count is not just a number; it is a way of describing the state of your immune system. Knowing your results can ease anxiety and support timely medical attention, encouraging proactivity in health status monitoring. Seek proper medical evaluation in cases where your levels are out of range. Book Your TLC Test at Clarity Imaging Today.
FAQs
1. What is a dangerous white blood cell count?
Counts that are extremely high or very low can be dangerous and require immediate medical attention.
2. What happens when white blood cells are high?
It is the one that generally signals the presence of infection, inflammation, or an immune response.
3. What level does a person have to have for eosinophils to indicate cancer?
It is to be noted that high levels of eosinophils alone cannot establish cancer, and further tests will be required.
4. How to increase WBC count?
Adequate sleep and proper nutrition are helpful in addition to the treatment of the underlying conditions.
5. List the foods that increase white blood cells?
Citrus fruits, leafy greens, garlic, almonds, yogurt, and lean proteins.
6. How to decrease the WBC count?
Treatment depends on the cause and may include medications or managing infections.
7. What is a cancer that results in a high white blood cell count?
The presence of leukaemia and some lymphomas can increase WBC count.
8. What if the total leukocyte count is low?
It can decrease immunity and predispose to infection-on professional advice.
9. What should be done if TLC is high?
Consult a doctor who will find the cause and begin with appropriate treatment.
10. What causes increases in TLC?
Infections, stress, inflammation, and some medications are commonly known to be causes.
