CBC results / infection?

I recently (Friday) had bloodwork done in preparation for arthroscopic knee surgery (will be 4/27).  I received my results today and was a little alarmed especially by my WBC.  Can you view the results and tell me if you think this is sign of significant infection?  On the day I took the blood test, I broke a tooth, i was told because I was not in pain the soonest my dentist could get me in is in 2 weeks, so I am wondering if there is correlation there.  My surgeon does not seemed concerned because she said the risk of infection from this type of surgery is rare.  I am just concerned that something else is going on.  

WBC  16.3
RBC   5.22
HGB  13.8
HCT  44.9
MCV  86.1
MCH  26.5
MCHC 30.7
PLT  522
Neutrophil count  11.8
Lymphocyte ct  3.3
Monocyte ct 1.0
Eosinophil ct .1
Basophil ct .1
RDW  14.3

My metabolic panel came back all with in normal range.  I do not have a fever and am feeling pretty healthy.  Any ideas?  Should I be concerned?  When is a WBC too high?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Yes, the WBC is markedly elevated, and infection should be ruled out first.  There is indeed a risk of infection with any type of surgery, no matter how small the risk.  If there was tooth trauma, this may be the source of the infection and should be investigated by the dentist.  

With the platelets also being elevated, a source of inflammation can also be considered.  Again, infection comes first.  However, if the tests are non-revealing, cancer and rheumatologic disease can also lead to these findings.  An evaluation of the peripheral blood smear and possible bone marrow biopsy can be considered for a more definitive evaluation.

These options should be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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