Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and sometimes bumpy or scaly patches. It affects millions of people, often flaring periodically due to various triggers. This article explores the connection between eczema and white blood cell counts, shedding light on how this skin condition can influence the body’s immune response.
Understanding White Blood Cells
White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are a fundamental component of the body’s immune system. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and circulate throughout the bloodstream and lymphatic system, acting as the body’s defense against infections and foreign invaders. They are essential for recognizing and neutralizing harmful substances.
There are five main types of white blood cells, each with specialized functions:
Neutrophils are the most abundant, primarily fighting bacterial and fungal infections.
Lymphocytes, including B cells and T cells, are crucial for targeted immune responses against viruses and for producing antibodies.
Monocytes help clear away dead cells and boost immune responses.
Eosinophils defend against parasites and are significantly involved in allergic reactions and inflammation.
Basophils release chemicals during allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
How Eczema Affects White Blood Cells
Eczema is an inflammatory condition where the immune system overreacts to harmless substances. This overreaction leads to inflammation in the skin, which can, in turn, elevate certain white blood cell counts. The body’s immune response in eczema involves the activation and increase of specific white blood cell types, even without an external infection.
Eosinophils are frequently elevated in individuals with eczema, particularly in allergic forms of the condition. These cells contribute to the inflammatory response, and their numbers often correlate with disease activity and severity. Research indicates that an increase in T helper 2 (Th2) cells, a type of lymphocyte, contributes to the inflammation in eczema by promoting immune signaling molecules that activate eosinophils.
The compromised skin barrier in eczema also plays a significant role. A weakened skin barrier allows allergens, irritants, and microorganisms to penetrate, triggering further immune responses. This can lead to secondary bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, especially from common skin bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. Such infections further increase white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, as the body defends itself. The elevation in white blood cells in eczema reflects ongoing inflammation or infection, indicating the body’s active immune response.
Interpreting an Elevated White Blood Cell Count
An elevated white blood cell count, also known as leukocytosis, typically means more than 11,000 white blood cells per microliter of blood in adults, though normal ranges can vary. An elevated count is a symptom, not a definitive diagnosis, requiring further investigation to determine the underlying cause. A high white blood cell count indicates an underlying issue such as infection, inflammation, or an immune system disorder.
A total white blood cell count (CBC) provides the overall number of white blood cells. A differential white blood cell count measures the percentages of each type. For example, a high percentage of eosinophils might point towards allergic conditions like eczema or parasitic infections, while an increase in neutrophils often suggests a bacterial infection. Monocytes may increase with chronic infections or inflammatory diseases.
Other factors can also lead to an elevated white blood cell count, including stress, certain medications like corticosteroids, allergic reactions, and other inflammatory conditions. Pregnancy and strenuous exercise can also temporarily increase white blood cell levels. A healthcare professional interprets these results within the context of a patient’s medical history, symptoms, and other test findings to arrive at an accurate diagnosis.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
If you have eczema and blood test results indicate an elevated white blood cell count, consult your healthcare provider. This allows for proper interpretation of results in the context of your overall health. A medical professional can determine if the elevated count relates to your eczema, a secondary infection, or another underlying condition.
Self-diagnosing or self-treating based solely on a high white blood cell count is not advisable. Your doctor can recommend appropriate management or order further diagnostic tests if necessary. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider about your eczema symptoms and blood test results ensures accurate and effective care.