Learn everything about the Total leukocyte count test before you book your lab test at-home. Understand the why, how, and what of this test.
Why Do Doctors Recommend Total Leukocyte Count?
Total Leukocyte Count Or White Blood Cell Count Test are often recommended as a part of the CBC tests and routine health checkups. Your healthcare provider may recommend a WBC differential test, which measures the amount of each type of WBC in your body if you exhibit specific symptoms of health complications.
Your healthcare provider may recommend a TLC blood test to assess your TLC count range at a given time.
- If you are exhibiting signs of fever, chills, body aches, and headache, which are not associated with other health complications
- If you are consuming prescription medications to lower your body's immune response
- To screen and diagnose any white blood cell disorders
Your healthcare provider will recommend a TLC Blood test if you are exhibiting signs of high white blood cell count. The symptoms of high TLC in blood could indicate various underlying health conditions, and the TLC test helps in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammatory diseases
- Bacterial or viral infections
- Leukaemia
- Hodgkin's disease
- Allergic reactions
Your healthcare provider will recommend a TLC Blood test if you are exhibiting signs of low white blood cell count. The symptoms of Low TLC in blood could indicate various underlying health conditions, and the TLC test helps in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions:
- HIV/AIDS
- Lymphoma
- Liver and spleen disorders
Assessing your leukocyte count against the total leukocytes normal range can help your healthcare provider recommend screening and diagnosing immune system-related health hazards on time and recommend appropriate treatment and management interventions.
How To Prepare for TLC Blood Test?
For Total leukocyte count testing, fasting is typically not required. Consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions. Additionally, inform your provider about medications, avoid intense exercise, and provide a comprehensive medical history for a thorough assessment of your metabolic health.
What Happens During TLC Blood Testing?
A TLC (Total Leukocyte Count) blood test determines the quantity of white blood cells (leukocytes) in a sample of your blood. White blood cells are an important component of the immune system and serve an important function in protecting the body from illnesses. The test is often included in a complete blood count (CBC) and gives important information about the state of your immune system.
- Sample Collection: A small blood sample is collected, usually from a vein in the arm.
- Sample Processing: The blood is processed in a lab to separate its components.
- White Blood Cell Count: Technicians count the number of white blood cells in the sample.
- Results Analysis: Results show the total white blood cell count per microliter of blood.
- Clinical Interpretation: Healthcare providers assess immune system activity, looking for abnormalities.
- Result Communication: Results are shared with you, and further tests may be recommended based on findings.
TLC testing is a quick and routine procedure providing insights into immune system health.