Understanding High White Blood Cell Count (WBC) - Causes & What to Expect

Question
My recent blood work came back and I had high white count as well as Neutrophils and Monocytes

White Blood count 16.8 (H)
Absolute Neutrophils 13003 (H)
Absolute Monocytes 974 (H)

All other values in range and no symptoms currently. at the time of blood test had congestion and mild on and off soreness in throat. that was a week ago and dr wants me to retest next week.

Answer
Hi, David.  A high WBC count indicates that your body is fighting off and infection.  Sometimes you may have no or just mild symptoms.  Neutrophils and monocytes are two types of WBCs.  The high WBC count can't really tell the nature of the infection.  Your doctor is doing what I would recommend - rechecking the WBC count in a week or so.

Samantha