WBC Count Calculator

WBC Count Formula:

\[ WBC = \frac{(cells\_counted \times dilution\_factor \times 10^4)}{number\_of\_squares} \]

WBC Count:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is WBC Count?

The WBC (White Blood Cell) count is a test that measures the number of white blood cells in your blood. These cells help fight infections and are an important part of your immune system. The count is typically performed using a hemocytometer in manual methods.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the WBC count formula:

\[ WBC = \frac{(cells\_counted \times dilution\_factor \times 10^4)}{number\_of\_squares} \]

Where:

\( cells\_counted \) — Number of cells counted in the hemocytometer
\( dilution\_factor \) — Dilution factor used (typically 20)
\( number\_of\_squares \) — Number of squares counted (usually 4 or 9)
\( 10^4 \) — Conversion factor to get cells/μL

Explanation: The formula accounts for the dilution of blood and the volume of the counting chamber to calculate the actual concentration of WBCs in the blood sample.

3. Importance of WBC Count

Details: WBC count is crucial for diagnosing infections, inflammatory diseases, immune disorders, and monitoring response to treatment. Abnormal counts can indicate various medical conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of cells counted, the dilution factor (typically 20), and the number of squares counted (usually 4 for WBC). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal WBC count range?
A: The normal range is typically 4,000-11,000 cells/μL in adults, but ranges may vary slightly by laboratory.

Q2: Why is a dilution factor needed?
A: Blood is too concentrated to count directly, so it's diluted to allow accurate counting under the microscope.

Q3: Which squares should be counted in the hemocytometer?
A: For WBC count, typically the four large corner squares (each containing 16 smaller squares) are counted.

Q4: What are common sources of error in WBC counting?
A: Errors can come from improper mixing, incorrect dilution, uneven distribution of cells, or miscounting.

Q5: When is manual WBC counting preferred over automated methods?
A: Manual counting may be used when automated counters give abnormal results, for very low counts, or when dealing with abnormal cells.