Leukemoid reaction
Leukemoid Reaction
Leukemoid reaction (pronounced: loo-kee-moyd ree-ak-shun) is a condition characterized by an extreme increase in white blood cells count, mimicking leukemia. It is a reactive process caused by either an infection or other diseases but is not a form of leukemia itself.
Etymology
The term "leukemoid" is derived from the Greek words "leukos" meaning white and "eidos" meaning resemblance or likeness. It refers to the condition's similarity to leukemia in terms of elevated white blood cell count.
Causes
Leukemoid reactions are typically caused by severe infections, malignancies, certain medications, or severe hemorrhage. They can also occur in response to certain toxins or chemicals. The most common cause is a severe bacterial infection, but viral, fungal, and parasitic infections can also trigger a leukemoid reaction.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a leukemoid reaction can vary depending on the underlying cause. They may include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats. In some cases, the reaction may be discovered during routine blood tests without any noticeable symptoms.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a leukemoid reaction involves a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures the number of white blood cells in the blood. A high white blood cell count, typically above 50,000 cells per microliter of blood, may indicate a leukemoid reaction. Further tests may be needed to determine the underlying cause.
Treatment
Treatment for a leukemoid reaction typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve antibiotics for an infection, chemotherapy for a malignancy, or discontinuation of a medication causing the reaction.
Related Terms
- Leukocytosis: An increase in the number of white blood cells in the blood.
- Leukemia: A type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.
- Neutrophilia: An increase in the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in the blood.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Leukemoid reaction
- Wikipedia's article - Leukemoid reaction
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