What is the normal range for white blood cell count?

The normal range for white blood cell (WBC) count is typically between 5,000 and 10,000 cells per microliter of blood. This range indicates the healthy functioning of the immune system, as white blood cells are essential for defending the body against infections and other diseases.

Count levels below or above this range can indicate various health issues: a count lower than 5,000, known as leukopenia, can suggest conditions such as bone marrow disorders or autoimmune diseases, while a count above 10,000, termed leukocytosis, can signal infections, inflammation, or more serious conditions like leukemia. Thus, the range of 5,000 to 10,000 serves as a critical benchmark for evaluating an individual's immune health and overall physiological state.