Total Leukocyte Count (TC)
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- cells/cu.mm
The Total Leukocyte Count (TLC) measures the total number of white blood cells (WBCs) in a volume of blood. Within a hematology panel, it acts as a primary indicator of the body's immune status. It is essential for diagnosing infections, inflammatory conditions, and hematologic malignancies like leukemia. A rise or fall in TLC provides the first clue to acute physiologic stress or bone marrow suppression.
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Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.
Why Context Matters
TLC can be transiently elevated by non-pathological factors such as smoking, emotional stress, pregnancy, and recent strenuous exercise. Certain medications, especially corticosteroids, can cause a 'pseudoleukocytosis' by demarginating WBCs into the bloodstream, which may require clinical correlation to avoid misdiagnosis of infection.
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Total Leukocyte Count (TC):
Official Sources
- WBC count: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaMedlinePlus
Research & Guidelines
Related Indicators
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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