Pediatric White Cell Disorders

Diagnosis

White blood cell disorders can cause several conditions, including:

• Frequent infections
• Abscesses
• Pneumonia
• Mouth sores

A thorough diagnosis requires blood tests to identify the white blood cell condition. If white blood cell count abnormalities are found, a Mayo Clinic pediatric hematologist will work closely with highly trained laboratory specialists to determine the cause. A sample of bone marrow may be taken. This biopsy involves carefully inserting a thin needle into the bone to collect a sample of bone marrow tissue and then examining the cells under a microscope.