Illness name: low white blood cell count
Description:
A low white blood cell count usually means your body is not making enough white blood cells. It can increase your risk of getting infections.
Common causes include:
Agranulocytosis and neutropenia are conditions that cause a low white blood cell count.
A blood test can tell you if your white blood cell count is low.
Your treatment will depend on what's causing your condition and will often include antibiotics.
You may also need specific treatment:
Occasionally, infections can lead to a life-threatening condition called
sepsis
.
If you have a low white blood cell count caused by illness or medicine you should take steps to avoid infections.
avoid close contact with people who are sick
store and prepare food properly to avoid food poisoning
wash your hands with soap and warm water regularly
use an electric shaver instead of a razor
avoid shared hot tubs
do not share food, cups, utensils, toothbrushes or make-up
do not eat raw foods, like meat, shellfish and eggs
do not change cat litter or handle animal poo
do not change nappies
do not walk outside barefoot
do not swim in ponds and rivers
Page last reviewed: 11 November 2020
Low white blood cell count
What causes a low white blood cell count?
Treating a low white blood cell count
Signs of an infection may include:
Non-urgent advice:
See a GP if:
Things you can do yourself to avoid infections
Do
Don’t
Next review due: 11 November 2023