Etymed
leukocytosis
Definition
an abnormal condition characterized by an increased number of white blood cells in the blood
Clinical context
A 23-year-old male presents to the emergency department with fever, chills, and severe sore throat. Physical examination reveals exudative pharyngitis with cervical lymphadenopathy. Laboratory studies show a white blood cell count of 18,000/μL with 85% neutrophils. The patient is diagnosed with bacterial pharyngitis and treated with antibiotics.
Mnemonic
LEUKO - Look for the ELEPHANT (increased white blood cells) in the blood