Hyperleukocytosis (Re)Visited- Is it always Leukaemia: A Report of Two Cases and Review of Literature

Abstract

Hyperleukocytosis is defined as total leukocyte count of more than 100×109 /L. Commonly seen in leukaemic conditions, nonleukaemic causes are usually not encountered and thought of. We report two such non-malignant cases of hyperleukocytosis. A six-year old girl presented with fever, cough and respiratory distress with a leukocyte count of 125.97×109 /L. Another case is of a two-month old female infant, who presented with fever and respiratory distress and a leukocyte count of 112.27×109 /L. The present case thrives to highlight various possible causes of hyperleukocytosis with an emphasis on non-malignant causes. Also, important complications and management of hyperleukocytosis are discussed.

Keywords

• benign
• leukocytosis
• leukostasis