Acute inflammation

The absolute count of basophils per liter of blood. Basophils are the rarest type of white blood cell and play a role in allergic reactions, inflammation, and parasite defense. The absolute count provides a more accurate assessment than the percentage, especially when total white blood cell counts are abnormal.

The absolute count of monocytes per liter of blood. Monocytes are white blood cells that migrate into tissues and become macrophages, where they engulf pathogens, dead cells, and debris. The absolute count is important because it reflects the actual capacity for tissue repair and immune surveillance independent of other white blood cell changes.

The absolute count of neutrophils per liter of blood. While neutrophil percentage shows the proportion among white blood cells, the absolute count reveals the actual number available to fight infections. This is clinically essential, because a normal percentage can mask a dangerously low absolute count if total white blood cells are reduced.

Globulin is a group of proteins in the blood that includes immunoglobulins (antibodies), transport proteins, and complement proteins. It is calculated by subtracting albumin from total protein. The albumin-to-globulin ratio helps assess liver function, kidney health, immune system activity, and nutritional status.

SIRI combines neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes to evaluate immune response and inflammation severity.

SII integrates neutrophil, platelet, and lymphocyte counts into a single measure of immune and inflammatory status.

NLR reflects the balance between neutrophils which drive early inflammation and lymphocytes which regulate immune control.

ESR measures the speed at which red blood cells settle in a tube over one hour. It is a broad indicator of inflammation.

Neutrophils (primary bacterial fighters) respond rapidly to acute infections.

Monocytes develop into macrophages that kill pathogens and dead cells.

Leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, are crucial for immune system function: the total white blood cell count measures overall immune activity, while differential testing examines specific cell types.

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a blood marker used to detect low levels of inflammation in the body. It is a more precise version of standard CRP testing and is especially useful for assessing cardiovascular risk, as even mild inflammation can contribute to heart disease.

Basophils release histamine during inflammatory and allergic reactions.