A white blood cell (WBC) count measures the total number of white blood cells in a given volume of blood. These cells are a vital part of the immune system, defending the body against infections (bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic) and participating in inflammatory processes and the removal of damaged cells. The test includes a WBC differential, which determines the percentage of each of the five main types: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.