Evaluate the table below to identify which type of blood cell count elevation could suggest an ongoing infection in a patient. Blood Component Normal Range Possible Indicator in Elevation White blood cells 4,500-11,000 cells/μL Infection or inflammation Red blood cells 4.7-6.1 million cells/μL Polycythemia or hypoxia Platelets 150,000-450,000 platelets/μL Chronic inflammation or malignancy

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White blood cells. Elevated white blood cells (leukocytosis) often indicate an ongoing infection or inflammation in the body. An increase in red blood cells or platelets does not typically indicate infection but may suggest other conditions like polycythemia or chronic inflammation.

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