Low white blood cell count

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When to see a doctor

By Mayo Clinic staff

A low white blood cell count is usually found when your doctor has ordered tests to help diagnose a condition you're already experiencing. It's rarely an unexpected finding or simply discovered by chance. Talk to your doctor about what these results mean. The presence of low white blood cell count and results from other tests may already indicate the cause of your illness, or your doctor may suggest other tests to assess your condition.

Because a chronic very low white blood cell count makes you vulnerable to infections, discuss precautions to avoid contracting contagious diseases with your doctor. You may be advised to wear a face mask and avoid anyone with a cold or other illness, and you may be reminded to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly.

MY00162

Sept. 26, 2008

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