White Blood Cells – what do your levels mean?
Have you had your White Blood Cell levels measured and are unsure what the numbers mean? Here you'll find a clear explanation of the normal range, what high or low levels can mean, and when it makes sense to get tested.
What is the normal range for White Blood Cells?
What is the normal range for White Blood Cells?
The normal range for white blood cells (leukocytes) varies depending on age and can also be affected by the laboratory's reference values. In adults, it typically ranges between 3.5 and 10.0 billion/L. For children under 2 years, the values are higher, often between 6.2 and 16.2 billion/L, while infants can have values up to 19.9 billion/L. Pregnant women may have elevated values, which can reach up to 14.1 billion/L during pregnancy. Being close to the boundary values can indicate an incipient infection or a temporary condition, but it always requires a medical assessment to determine the cause.
What does a low level mean?
A low level of white blood cells, also called leukopenia, can make the body more vulnerable to infections. Symptoms can include fever, frequent infections, and fatigue. Common causes of low levels include viral infections, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, and side effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Particularly vulnerable groups are patients with autoimmune diseases or those receiving immunosuppressive treatment. In cases of low values, a doctor should be consulted to assess the need for further examinations or treatment.
What does a high level mean?
A high level of white blood cells, known as leukocytosis, can be a sign of infections, inflammation, or more serious conditions such as leukemia. Symptoms can include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and increased fatigue. Causes can range from bacterial infections and stress to chronic inflammatory diseases like Crohn's disease. For very high values, especially above 20 billion/L, medical attention should be sought immediately, as it can indicate serious conditions such as blood cancer or sepsis. A doctor will typically perform further tests to find the cause and initiate treatment.
Get your White Blood Cell levels tested
At Celto, you can order a blood test for White Blood Cells directly online – without a doctor's referral and without long waiting times. We have over 34 blood sample collection points at public hospitals throughout Denmark, and your samples are analyzed in the same accredited laboratories used by the rest of the healthcare system. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk, just like all other blood tests from the public system.
How it works
When you order a blood test from Celto, you choose which markers you want to have tested – no doctor's referral necessary. After your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to our booking system, where you choose a time and place. The blood sample itself is taken by authorized healthcare professionals and typically only takes a few minutes.
Where you can get tested
Celto has over 34 blood sample collection points at public hospitals and clinics throughout Denmark. You choose the location that suits you best among our partners, and there are typically available times within a few days. Find your nearest blood sample collection point →
How to get your results
Your blood samples are analyzed in the same laboratories used by your own doctor and the rest of the healthcare system, with the exact same quality and same tests. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk within a few working days, and Celto will also send an easy-to-understand review of your values so you know what the numbers mean.