Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell. They are the body’s first line of defense in fighting infection and viruses, and often signal other components of the immune system to respond to these foreign invaders.
Neutrophilia is a type of leukocytosis that affects neutrophils and is often associated with infections and inflammation from injuries and arthritis. Known causes of neutrophilia include:
An adverse reaction to drugs such as steroids, lithium and inhalers
Emotional or physical stress
Certain types of leukemia
Removal of Spleen
Smoking
Lymphocytes in your blood create T cells that directly destroy harmful invaders and B cells that produce antibodies to recognize these foreign cells if seen again by the immune system.
Lymphocytosis is an increased number of these types of cells. It is a common type of leukocytosis and is associated with both viral infections and leukemia. Known causes of lymphocytosis include:
Allergic reactions
Viral infections
Whooping cough (pertussis)
Certain types of leukemia
Monocytes. These types of cells are larger and live longer than many white blood cells. They work to help to break down bacteria and remove cellular debris.
Monocytosis, which is uncommon, happens when there are a high number of these cells. Known causes of monocytosis include:
Infections caused by certain things including mononucleosis, Epstein Barr virus, tuberculosis and fungus
Removal of Spleen
Autoimmune diseases
Eosinophils are white blood cells that attack parasites and react to inflammation.
An elevated number of these cells is Eosinophilia. Known causes of eosinophilia include:
Seasonal allergies
Other types of allergic reactions
Certain kinds of skin diseases
Certain types of cancer
Basophils are small cells that create a reaction when infectious agents invade your blood. These type of white blood cells secrete chemicals such as histamine, a marker of allergic disease, which help to control the body's immune response.
Basophilia, which is a rare condition is when there is a high level of these types of cells. It is associated with leukemia. Known causes of basophilia include:
Bone marrow cancer or leukemia (more common)
Allergic reactions (less common)
Signs and Symptoms
Allergic reaction in the lungs that causes wheezing or breathing problems
Allergic skin reaction including hives, itchy skin and rashes
Dizziness, or feeling faint or sweaty
Infection site pain or fever
Mouth, stomach or intestinal bleeding (areas of body covered with mucosa)
Pain or tingling in your legs, arms or abdomen
Stroke
Vision problems
Weight loss