How to Calculate WBC

WBC Calculation Formula:

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

White Blood Cell Count (WBC):

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1. What is WBC Count?

The White Blood Cell (WBC) count measures the number of white blood cells in a volume of blood. It's an important indicator of immune system function and helps diagnose infections, inflammation, and blood disorders.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the hemocytometer 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 in sample preparation
\( number\_of\_squares \) — Number of squares counted (typically 4 or 9)
\( 10^4 \) — Conversion factor to get cells/μL

Explanation: The formula accounts for the dilution of the blood sample and the volume represented by the counted squares to calculate the actual concentration of WBCs in the blood.

3. Importance of WBC Count

Details: WBC count helps diagnose infections, monitor immune system disorders, check for leukemia, and assess response to chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of cells counted in the hemocytometer, the dilution factor used (typically 20 for manual WBC counts), and the number of squares counted (usually 4 large squares for WBC count).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal WBC count range?
A: Normal range is typically 4,500-11,000 cells/μL in adults, but ranges may vary slightly by laboratory.

Q2: Why is dilution necessary for WBC counting?
A: Blood is diluted to reduce the number of cells to a countable range and to lyse red blood cells that would otherwise obscure WBCs.

Q3: What are common dilution factors used?
A: Common dilution factors are 20 for manual WBC counts (1:20 dilution) and 100 for manual platelet counts.

Q4: Which squares should be counted in a hemocytometer?
A: For WBC count, typically the four large corner squares (each containing 16 smaller squares) are counted.

Q5: When is manual WBC counting preferred over automated?
A: Manual counting may be needed when automated counters give abnormal results, for very low WBC counts, or when nucleated RBCs are present.