What body function does a high white blood cell count typically indicate?

A high white blood cell count is generally indicative of an ongoing issue within the body, with the most common cause being an infection. When the body detects pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, it responds by increasing the production of white blood cells (WBCs). These cells are a crucial component of the immune system and help to combat infections by attacking and destroying invading organisms.

In many cases, a significantly elevated WBC count suggests that the body is actively fighting off an infection. This is why a high white blood cell count is often used as a diagnostic tool during medical evaluations. It can also point to other conditions such as inflammation, stress, or certain cancers, but in the context of the question, an infection is the most direct and typical indicator.

While there may be conditions that can lead to a decreased WBC count or indicate a normal immune response with stable levels, these do not directly correlate with a high count. Low cholesterol levels are unrelated to white blood cell counts and do not reflect any immune response. Thus, a significant increase in white blood cells primarily points toward an infection in the body.