Leukocytosis as a predictor for non-infective mortality and morbidity

Leukocytosis (raised concentration of white cells

in the blood) is commonly associated with infection

or inflammation, but can occur in a wide variety

of other conditions. Leukocytosis has also been

linked with increased mortality and morbidity in

a number of studies. We have systematically

reviewed the relevant literature, which clearly

demonstrates an association between leukocytosis

and mortality—particularly due to cardiovascular

or cerebrovascular causes. The mechanisms of this

effect are uncertain but, when combined with other

markers predictive of death, leukocytosis may contribute

to modelling systems to predict in-patient