Prednisone is a widely prescribed medication known as a corticosteroid. It acts as a synthetic version of hormones naturally produced by the adrenal glands, primarily affecting the immune system and reducing inflammation. Patients often wonder about its effects on white blood cell counts, a common concern given the medication’s broad impact on the body.
How Prednisone Influences White Blood Cell Counts
Prednisone influences white blood cell (WBC) counts, often leading to a complex pattern of changes rather than a simple lowering of all types. It primarily causes a redistribution of these cells throughout the body. Specifically, prednisone can increase the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in the bloodstream. This increase results from neutrophils moving from vessel walls into circulation, delayed tissue entry, and stimulated bone marrow release.
While neutrophils increase, other white blood cell types like lymphocytes, eosinophils, and monocytes usually decrease in the bloodstream. Prednisone can cause lymphocytes to redistribute from the circulating blood into lymphoid tissues, leading to lower counts in the blood. Similarly, eosinophils and monocytes are also affected by redistribution or increased destruction, resulting in their decreased numbers in circulation. At higher doses or with prolonged use, prednisone may also affect the bone marrow’s production of some white blood cell types, contributing to these changes.
The Role of White Blood Cells
White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are key parts of the body’s immune system. These cells circulate through the bloodstream and tissues, defending against invaders. They play a role in protecting against infections, identifying foreign substances, and clearing cellular debris.
There are several types of white blood cells, each with specific functions in the immune response. Neutrophils are first responders to bacterial and fungal infections, engulfing and destroying these pathogens. Lymphocytes, including T cells and B cells, fight viral infections and produce antibodies against specific foreign invaders. Monocytes help clean up damaged cells and communicate with other immune cells, while eosinophils combat parasitic infections and allergic reactions. Basophils contribute to allergic responses by releasing chemicals like histamine.
Understanding Changes in White Blood Cell Counts
Changes in white blood cell counts due to prednisone are monitored through blood tests. A decrease in the overall white blood cell count is known as leukopenia. More specifically, a low lymphocyte count is termed lymphopenia, and a low neutrophil count is called neutropenia. While prednisone increases total WBC due to neutrophilia, it consistently causes lymphopenia and eosinopenia.
Low counts of certain white blood cells, particularly neutrophils (neutropenia) or lymphocytes (lymphopenia), can increase a person’s susceptibility to infections. This risk occurs because the immune system’s ability to fight off pathogens is compromised. Healthcare providers monitor these changes in patients taking prednisone, as these effects are known and manageable side effects of the therapy. Following medical advice and regular blood testing is important for managing these potential changes.
Prednisone’s Broader Impact on Blood Components
Beyond its effects on white blood cells, prednisone does not significantly lower other major blood components. Red blood cell counts, responsible for oxygen transport, are not decreased by prednisone. In some cases, prednisone may even lead to a slight increase in red blood cell production.
Platelet counts, which are important for blood clotting, are also not lowered by prednisone. In fact, for certain conditions, prednisone can be used to increase platelet counts. The primary hematological impact of prednisone remains its varied influence on white blood cell populations. This specific effect on white blood cells is why it receives primary focus when discussing prednisone’s influence on blood components.