How Do You Spell RELATIVE LEUCOCYTOSIS?

1. Relative leucocytosis is a medical term used to describe the condition in which the number of white blood cells (leucocytes) in the blood appears to be elevated when compared to the total number of blood cells, but it is actually due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells or other blood components.

   Leucocytes are a vital part of the immune system and play a crucial role in fighting infections and diseases. They are produced in the bone marrow and are typically present in a specific range within the blood. However, in cases of relative leucocytosis, the ratio of white blood cells to other blood components seems to be higher, indicating an apparent increase in the total number of leucocytes.

   Relative leucocytosis can be caused by several factors, including dehydration, stress, certain medications, and various medical conditions such as inflammation, trauma, or hormonal imbalances. These underlying causes can affect the relative proportion of white blood cells in the blood, leading to the appearance of elevated levels.

   It is important to differentiate relative leucocytosis from absolute leucocytosis, which refers to a true increase in the number of leucocytes, including an elevation in the total white blood cell count. Absolute leucocytosis can be an indication of an ongoing infection, inflammation, tissue damage, or even certain types of blood cancers.

   To accurately diagnose relative leucocytosis, healthcare professionals will often evaluate the complete blood count (CBC) and other lab tests to determine the exact cause behind the apparent increase in white blood cells. Treatment generally focuses on addressing the underlying cause and managing any associated symptoms or conditions.

2. An increase in the percentage of any variety of leucocytes in the peripheral blood-stream, with or without an actual increase in the total number of white blood-cells.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for RELATIVE LEUCOCYTOSIS

The etymology of the term "relative leucocytosis" can be understood by breaking it down into its constituent parts:

1. Relative: The word "relative" comes from the Latin word "relativus", which means "related" or "concerning something in relation to something else". In this context, "relative" indicates that the observed condition of "leucocytosis" is being compared or evaluated in relation to some other state or value.

2. Leucocytosis: "Leucocytosis" is composed of two elements — "leuco-" and "-cytosis".

- "Leuco-" is derived from the Greek word "leukos", which means "white". In medical terminology, "leuco-" is commonly used to refer to white blood cells.

- "-cytosis" is derived from the Greek word "kytos", which means "cell".