What white blood cell count might indicate appendicitis in a client with suspected acute appendicitis?

In cases of acute appendicitis, a significant increase in white blood cell (WBC) count is commonly observed as the body responds to inflammation and potential infection. A WBC count of 18,000 mm³ (18 × 10^9/L) is indicative of a strong immune response. This elevated count often suggests the presence of infection, which is characteristic of appendicitis, as the inflamed appendix can lead to the release of various cytokines and other mediators that stimulate leukocytosis.

In patients with appendicitis, the WBC count often exceeds 10,000 mm³ (10 × 10^9/L), with counts like 18,000 mm³ being particularly suggestive of the condition. This contrasts with lower WBC counts, such as 4,000 mm³ or 8,000 mm³, which are generally within or near normal ranges and do not typically indicate the acute inflammatory process associated with appendicitis. Higher counts, such as 26,000 mm³, may suggest a more severe infectious process or other complications, but the 18,000 mm³ count is more consistent with early acute appendicitis.

Therefore, the selected WBC count effectively aligns with the clinical