Understanding Blood Test Results: Neutrophil Leucocytosis & Left Shift

Question
Hi, My dad just had blood tests done and the results were:  there is a neutrophil leucocytosis, the neutrophils show a left shift and toxic grantlation.  these features suggest an acute bacterial infection.

What does all that mean and could it refer to anything cancerous?

Answer
Hi Belinda.  These results are saying that your dad probably has an acute bacterial infection.  That's the most common cause of "left shift" of neutrophils, which means the body is producing immature WBCs (white blood cells) to fight the infection.  Most times, this does not indicate cancer.  RARELY, though, immature WBCs can be seen in some types of leukemia.  But only rarely!  Check with your dad's doctor for treatments of his probable bacterial infection.  The doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to cure the infection.

Samantha