2020 Volume 47 Issue 4 Pages 523-526
Leukocytosis is reported to have malignant and non-malignant etiologies such as infectious diseases and smoking. However, it is important to rule out asymptomatic cases of hematological malignancy in the early stages based on leukocytosis findings on blood tests during health checkups. Here, we report a 52-year-old asymptomatic woman with leukocytosis (white blood cell count of 13.01 × 109/L) that was incidentally detected on a blood test performed as part of a routine health checkup. According to the diagnostic criteria of the Japan Society of Ningen Dock, the examinee was referred to another regional hospital for further evaluation. Thereafter, based on findings from blood smears, bone marrow examination and major BCR/ABL polymerase chain reaction (PCR) examination, the patient was clinically diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia. Consequently, diagnosis during the early stages allowed successful treatment with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and the patient became disease-free.
In conclusion, when we diagnose the leukocytosis on the blood test in health checkups, we should consult and refer to specialists to perform further detailed examinations and therapy in clinical practice.
