May 26, 2012
Topics A-Z Infections Further explanation on bacterial infections and neutrophils
Further explanation on bacterial infections and neutrophils |
|
Dear Ask The Doctor: Am I understanding this correctly? Leukocytes (white blood cells) has two main types which are lymphocytes and phagocytes. Neutrophils are a type of phagocytes that targets bacteria. When the neutrophil count is higher than normal, it indicates a bacterial infection. Question- Are neutrophils created by phagocytes only when a pathogen or a bacterial infection enters the human body? I also understand how Physicians have the ability to determine the different types of white blood cells in the body through a certain blood test. What is this test called? Is it true that a physician can know the exact treatment for a bacterial infection by determining the neutrophil count from that certain blood test? Dear Carrie: Leukocytes including neutrophils are always present in the body in certain numbers, known as the normal range for each type of white cells. Their count is increased in response to any infection. To determine the different types of white blood cells, a test called white blood cell differential count, is ordered. Raised neutrophil count indicate infection and along with the assessment of other signs and symptoms, your doctor may be able to prescribe proper antibiotics and other medications for treatment. Usually empiric treatment with antibiotics is followed, for an immediate control of infection. Meanwhile culture of the specimen (blood, urine, pus or any discharge) may be sent to determine the specific causative organism and its sensitivity to different antibiotics (the results of which are not available for about a week), to help confirm or make any changes to the antibiotics already prescribed.
|
|
| Last Updated ( Tuesday, 12 July 2011 ) |
|
|
|
|
