Which lab value is typically used to indicate an infection?

Elevated white blood cell (WBC) count is a common laboratory indicator of infection in the body. When an infection occurs, the immune system responds by producing more white blood cells to help combat the invading pathogens. This increase in WBCs is often reflected in laboratory tests that measure the complete blood count (CBC).

A high WBC count can indicate various types of infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. It is important to note that while other lab values may provide useful information about a patient's overall health and assist in diagnosing other conditions, they are not specific indicators of infection. For example, a low platelet count may suggest conditions like bleeding disorders or bone marrow problems, while low hemoglobin levels can indicate anemia that may not be directly related to an infection. Increased creatinine levels typically point to renal impairment rather than infectious processes.