This biomarker is part of the Biolytics App. For a complete list of all available biomarkers, visit: Biomarkers.

Monocytes

Group: Complete blood count

Description:

Monocytes are a type of leukocyte or white blood cell. They are the largest type of leukocytes in the blood and can transform into macrophages or dendritic cells when an invading germ or bacterium enters the body. The cells kill the invader or alert other blood cells to destroy it and prevent infection. **High** The body may produce more monocytes following an infection or in the presence of an autoimmune disease. If you have an autoimmune disease, cells such as monocytes mistakenly attack healthy cells in the body. **Low** Low levels of monocytes tend to develop as a result of medical conditions that lower the total number of white blood cells or disease treatments that suppress the immune system.