ATI Pathophysiology Practice Exam

During inflammation, the white blood cell count is typically elevated. This increase occurs as the body’s immune response activates in reaction to injury or infection. White blood cells, particularly neutrophils, play a crucial role in fighting off pathogens and repairing tissues.

Increased white blood cell counts are commonly seen in various inflammatory conditions, such as infections, autoimmune disorders, and allergic reactions. The body produces more white blood cells in response to inflammatory mediators like cytokines, which signal for help in dealing with the inflammation.

While other cellular components like platelets can also be affected in different contexts, the hallmark of an inflammatory response is the elevation of white blood cells, which directly indicates an active immune response. This is why the correct answer emphasizes the significance of elevated white blood cell counts during inflammation.