Which condition could cause an elevated white blood cell count?

An elevated white blood cell count, known as leukocytosis, is commonly associated with infection or inflammation. When the body detects pathogens such as bacteria or viruses, the immune system responds by increasing the production of white blood cells to help combat the invaders. This response is a natural part of the immune system's defense mechanism, as these cells play a crucial role in identifying and eliminating harmful microorganisms.

Infections can cause the count to rise significantly, leading to the characteristic symptoms associated with illness, such as fever, fatigue, and malaise. In addition to infections, conditions that cause inflammation in the body, such as autoimmune diseases, allergies, or injuries, can also contribute to an elevated white blood cell count for similar protective reasons.

In contrast, the other conditions listed do not typically cause an increase in white blood cell count. Dehydration can concentrate blood components but does not directly stimulate an increase in white blood cells. Anemia, which is characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, primarily affects oxygen transport and does not typically influence white blood cell counts. Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar levels, while it can have various effects on the body, does not directly lead to an increase in white blood cell production. Thus, infection