How is the corrected leukocyte count calculated?

The corrected leukocyte count is determined to account for the presence of nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs) in the sample, which can falsely elevate the white blood cell (WBC) count if not considered. The correct method for calculating the corrected leukocyte count involves applying a correction factor that adjusts the WBC count based on the number of nucleated RBCs present.

This method uses the formula: WBC count x (100 / [nucleated RBC + 100]). In this formula, the WBC count is multiplied by a correction factor, where the number of nucleated RBCs is added to 100. This adjusts the leukocyte count proportionally to ensure that the presence of nucleated RBCs does not skew the results, allowing for a more accurate representation of the true white blood cell count.

This approach is crucial in clinical laboratories as it ensures that clinicians receive correct and actionable information regarding a patient’s immune response, hematological status, or possible underlying conditions.