If a blood test shows twice the normal number of leukocytes, what is the most likely explanation?

A blood test indicating twice the normal number of leukocytes, or white blood cells, typically suggests that the body is responding to an underlying condition, such as an infection. Leukocytes play a crucial role in the immune system; they help fight off pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. When an infection occurs, the body's defense mechanism activates, leading to an increase in white blood cell production to combat the invaders.

This response is generally the body’s way of trying to restore health and eliminate the cause of the infection. Other conditions, such as dehydration, allergies, or anemia, may impact blood cell counts but would not specifically cause such a significant increase in leukocyte levels. Hence, the most likely explanation for the elevated leukocyte count in this context is the presence of an infection.