Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

What typically happens to the leukocyte count during a bacterial infection?

1. Decreased

2. Increased

3. Normal

4. Slightly decreased

The correct answer is: Increased

During a bacterial infection, the body's immune response is activated to combat the invading pathogens. One of the hallmark features of this response is an increase in the leukocyte count, specifically neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell that plays a vital role in fighting bacterial infections. This increase is part of the body’s defense mechanism, as leukocytes are responsible for identifying and eliminating bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. The leukocyte count can rise significantly as the bone marrow accelerates the production of these cells in response to signals from the immune system. This process is crucial for effectively controlling and resolving the infection. In many cases, the increase in leukocytes can be observed through a complete blood count (CBC), and it serves as an important diagnostic indicator of infection, allowing healthcare professionals to monitor the severity and progression of the illness.