Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC) Practice Exam

An increased neutrophilic count, often seen in a differential white blood cell (WBC) count, specifically indicates an ongoing immune response to infection or inflammation. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the body's defense against pathogens, particularly bacteria.

When there is an acute suppurative infection, such as those caused by bacterial pathogens leading to pus formation, the body responds with a significant increase in neutrophils as these cells rush to the site of infection to combat the invading microbes. This response is typically characterized by neutrophilia.

In cases of chronic bacterial infections, the body may also show an increase in neutrophils as the immune system continues to fight off the persistent threat, even if the levels are not as elevated as in acute conditions. Additionally, viral infections can sometimes provoke a secondary bacterial response, leading to transient increases in neutrophils due to the dual nature of the immune response.

Thus, an increased neutrophilic count in a differential WBC count can indicate various types of infections, including acute suppurative and chronic bacterial infections, along with the possibility of involvement in the context of viral infections, highlighting the multifaceted role of neutrophils in immune responses. The presence of