What are White Blood Cells in Stool?
White Blood Cells (WBCs) are part of the immune system and are responsible for fighting infections. When WBCs are present in the stool, it indicates that there may be an infection or inflammation in the digestive system.
Preparation
Your doctor may need to take a sample of your stool in order to look for white blood cells. They may ask you to not eat or drink anything the night before your appointment, and to also avoid using any medicines that might affect the results.
Procedure
A sample of your stool will be taken from the toilet and sent to a lab for testing. The lab will look for the presence of white blood cells and other cells and substances that may indicate the presence of an infection or inflammation.
Types of White Blood Cells in Stool
The most common types of white blood cells found in the stool are eosinophils and neutrophils. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that is known to fight off infection and inflammation, while neutrophil white blood cells are responsible for providing protection against bacterial infections.
Risks of White Blood Cells in Stool
The presence of white blood cells in the stool does not always indicate a direct medical risk. However, it can be an indicator that there may be a problem with the digestive system, such as an infection or inflammation.
Why is White Blood Cell (WBC) Count in Stool performed?
The presence of white blood cells in the stool can indicate an infection or inflammation in the digestive system. By testing for white blood cells, doctors can look for signs of an infection or inflammation, and decide on the best course of treatment.
When to Get a White Blood Cell (WBC) Count in Stool Test
Your doctor may recommend a white blood cell count in the stool if you are experiencing any symptoms that may indicate an infection or inflammation in the digestive system. These symptoms may include abdominal pain, fever, bloody or tarry stools, fatigue, and weight loss.