Monocytes
Monocytes are the largest white blood cells, comprising 2-8% of the WBC count. They circulate in blood for 1-3 days before migrating into tissues where they differentiate into macrophages (tissue scavengers) or dendritic cells (antigen presenters). They are key players in both innate immunity and the bridge to adaptive immunity.
Why it matters: Elevated monocytes (monocytosis) often indicate chronic infections (tuberculosis, endocarditis), inflammatory conditions, or recovery from acute infection. Persistent monocytosis can also signal myeloproliferative disorders (CMML). Monocytes drive atherosclerosis by entering arterial walls and becoming foam cells.
May increase with:
May decrease with:
What is Monocytes?
Monocytes are the largest white blood cells, comprising 2-8% of the WBC count. They circulate in blood for 1-3 days before migrating into tissues where they differentiate into macrophages (tissue scavengers) or dendritic cells (antigen presenters). They are key players in both innate immunity and the bridge to adaptive immunity.
What might a high or low Monocytes mean?
Elevated monocytes (monocytosis) often indicate chronic infections (tuberculosis, endocarditis), inflammatory conditions, or recovery from acute infection. Persistent monocytosis can also signal myeloproliferative disorders (CMML). Monocytes drive atherosclerosis by entering arterial walls and becoming foam cells.
What is the typical reference range for Monocytes?
The general-population reference range shown here is 0.2 – 1 10x9/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.
What can affect Monocytes?
It may be higher with: Chronic infections (TB, endocarditis, fungal), Chronic inflammatory diseases, Recovery from acute infection, Autoimmune disorders, Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), Post-splenectomy. It may be lower with: Acute stress (cortisol redistributes monocytes), Bone marrow suppression, Aplastic anemia, Hairy cell leukemia.
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