why is my wbc low

A low white blood cell (WBC) count, also called leukopenia or neutropenia, occurs when the body has fewer white blood cells than normal, which can reduce the ability to fight infections effectively. Common causes include infections (viral or severe bacterial), medications (notably chemotherapy and some other drugs), bone marrow problems (due to cancer, toxins, or radiation), autoimmune disorders (like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis), nutritional deficiencies (such as low vitamin B12 or folic acid), and certain chronic illnesses or genetic conditions. Some people, especially those of African or Middle Eastern descent, may have naturally lower WBC counts without increased infection risk due to a benign genetic variant. Symptoms of low WBC often relate to increased susceptibility to infections, such as fever, rashes, persistent sores, and fatigue. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and sometimes bone marrow examination to identify the underlying cause.