Question
A baby who is about to turn 13 months old has been found to have elevated white blood cells and platelets during a blood test. The parents are wondering what could be the cause of this?
Answer
An elevated white blood cell count typically indicates the presence of an infection or other inflammatory condition. If accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms, it may point to inflammatory conditions in the digestive system, such as enteritis, pancreatitis, appendicitis, and so on. Occasionally, inflammation outside the digestive system could also be the cause of dry heaves, such as neurological inflammation or pneumonia. Antibiotic treatment usually improves the condition, and there should be no long-term impact on the body once the inflammation resolves. This is the suggested answer to the question ‘Possible causes of elevated white blood cells and platelets in a 13-month-old baby.’ I hope it is helpful. Wishing you health.