What should be suspected when the left shift is seen in the presence of low leukocyte counts with 70% neutrophils?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The left shift, which refers to an increase in immature granulocytes (bands and metamyelocytes), suggests an acute inflammatory process. Low leukocyte counts with high neutrophil percentages suggest that the body is responding to an infection or inflammation, likely septicemia. Multiple sclerosis, multiple myeloma, and Pelger-Huët anomaly do not typically present with a left shift. Leukemia can also cause a left shift, but the low leukocyte counts seen in this scenario make it less likely.

What Should Be Suspected When the Left Shift Is Seen