What does an increased white blood cell count suggest in a clinical setting?

An increased white blood cell count, also known as leukocytosis, typically indicates that the body is responding to a condition such as infection or inflammation. White blood cells are critical components of the immune system and play a vital role in defending the body against pathogens. When there is an infection or inflammatory process occurring, the body produces more white blood cells to combat the invasive organisms or respond to tissue injury.

This understanding is paramount in clinical settings as healthcare professionals often rely on elevated white blood cell counts to guide further diagnostic testing or treatment decisions. Monitoring these counts can provide insight into the patient's current health status and the effectiveness of ongoing treatments related to infection or inflammation. It directly correlates to the body's attempt to heal or fight off disease, thus making it a significant indicator in clinical assessments.