Leukocytes (white blood cells) carry the function of destroying the infection in the body, participating in immune and regenerative processes. The number of leukocytes in the feces of the baby is in many ways an indicator of the health of the baby.
Leukocytes in the coprogram in infants
One of the main indicators of the coprogram - the general analysis of feces, is the number of leukocytes. The results of the study help to determine the presence of inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and the violation of the enzymatic state of digestion.
The norm of leukocytes in the feces of the baby is their single content. Most often, the number of white blood cells in the sphere of visibility of the microscope does not exceed 10. If the leukocytes in the baby are increased, then this signal is a violation of the intestinal microflora.
Leukocytes in the stool of the baby: causes and symptoms
The most frequent cause of increase in leukocytes is a prolonged diarrhea, as a result of which the baby loses a lot of fluid. Especially should be alerted when there are leukocytes and mucus in the stool. The increase in leukocytes may be a sign of a number of diseases:
- mucus in the form of lumps in fecal masses is observed with follicular enteritis;
- epithelium of cylindrical form, cocci and E. coli against the background of a large number of leukocytes indicate a dysbacteriosis (colitis);
- Allergic colitis is characterized by a significant number of eosinophils - a variety of leukocytes responsible for the destruction of foreign proteins;
- presence of neutrophils - a group of leukocytes providing protection against infections, indicates the development of ulcerative colitis;
- a large amount of neutrophils is characteristic of dysentery, accompanied by a general intoxication of the body;
- the changed amount of leukocytes in combination with undigested fiber is a sign of spastic colitis (constipation).
In some cases, the presence of white blood cells can be observed with an improperly organized food process,
But often a slight increase in leukocytes in feces can also be found in a healthy child, so if the disease is more indicative deterioration of the baby, intestinal colic, an allergic rash and insufficient body weight. If the baby feels well, has a good appetite, does not feel unwell and does not feel pain in the abdomen, then the parents should not be afraid of the greenish shade of fecal masses.
We remind you that the deterioration of the baby's health is an occasion to immediately consult a doctor. Medication of infants without a doctor's appointment is strictly contraindicated!