what TLC in blood is
What is TLC in Blood
TLC stands for total leukocyte count. It is a blood test that measures the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in your blood. WBCs are a type of blood cell that helps your body fight infection. A TLC test can help your doctor diagnose a variety of health conditions, including
* Infections
* Allergies
* Autoimmune diseases
* Cancer
The normal range for TLC in adults is 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL) of blood. A TLC that is lower than normal (leukopenia) can be a sign of infection, bone marrow suppression, or certain medications. A TLC that is higher than normal (leukocytosis) can be a sign of infection, inflammation, or certain types of cancer.
A TLC test is usually performed as part of a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC also includes tests for red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets.
If your doctor orders a TLC test, you will need to fast for 8 hours before the test. You will also need to avoid taking aspirin or other medications that can interfere with the test results.
The TLC test is a simple and painless procedure. A small amount of blood will be drawn from your arm, usually in the crook of your elbow. The blood will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Your doctor will discuss the results of your TLC test with you. If your TLC is outside the normal range, your doctor may order additional tests to determine the cause of your abnormal results.
Here are some additional things to know about TLC
* The number of WBCs in your blood can fluctuate throughout the day. Your TLC may be higher in the morning and lower in the evening.
* Women typically have a slightly lower TLC than men.
* Age can also affect your TLC. Children typically have a higher TLC than adults.
* Certain medications, such as steroids and chemotherapy drugs, can affect your TLC.
If you have any questions about TLC, be sure to talk to your doctor.
