Summary
Introduction. The complete blood count (CBC) is an essential diagnostic tool for every physician. Monocytes are important peripheral blood immune system cells – they are innate immunity leukocytes that, upon reaching tissues, transform into macrophages, which actively participate in various inflammatory reactions. The monocyte count in the blood can increase as the demand for macrophages in tissues increases. Additionally, monocytes in peripheral blood can function as phagocytes or differentiate into dendritic cells. Effective interpretation of changes in the number of these cells can help suspect a specific condition, assess its course, differentiate it from others, and thus significantly facilitate diagnosis. Knowledge of the etiological causes of monocytosis and monocytopenia and adherence to diagnostic algorithms can lead to smoother diagnostic and treatment processes.
Objective of the Study. Perform a literature analysis and present the main causes of changes in monocyte count, as well as develop diagnostic algorithms to aid in differentiating various diseases causing monocytosis or monocytopenia.
Methods. A literature review was conducted using several databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, and other reliable sources, employing freetext search with relevant keywords. 60 studies were selected to fulfill the research objectives, without limitations based on time or a predetermined selection protocol.
Conclusions. Based on the literature analysis conducted, the developed diagnostic algorithms when encountering monocytosis or monocytopenia in complete blood count can assist primary care physicians in appropriately responding to each condition that alters the monocyte count in peripheral blood. It is important to consider the patient‘s medical history and clinical examination findings when deciding to refer the patient for further tests or specialist consultations. Diagnostic algorithms encourage the selection of effective and cost-efficient methods for diagnosing the disease, evaluating disease dynamics, and planning treatment, thus reducing the harm of unnecessary tests and at the same time expediting patient diagnosis.
