Low white blood cell count

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 of a low white blood cell count include:

Agranulocytosis and neutropenia are conditions that cause a low white blood cell count.

A low white blood cell count does not always cause any symptoms.

The main symptom is getting frequent infections. Signs of an infection may include:

  • a high temperature
  • chills and shivering
  • sore throat
  • mouth sores that keep coming back
  • toothache
  • skin rashes
  • tiredness
  • flu-like symptoms

A blood test can tell you if your white blood cell count is low.

Treatment for a low white blood cell count depends on what's causing it. Treatment often includes antibiotics.

If it's caused by a medicine or other treatment you're having, you may need to stop the treatment or change your dose.

You may also need specific treatment:

  • to boost your white blood cells
  • if you've got an infection

Occasionally, infections can lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis.

See a GP if:

  • you know you're at risk of a low white blood cell count and you get an infection
  • you keep getting infections

If you have a low white blood cell count caused by illness, cancer treatment or medicine, it's important to take steps to avoid infections.

Do

  • 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

Don't

  • 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, lakes and rivers