UKMLA PLAB AMC USMLE Prometric MCQ

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:
A shift to the left refers to an increase number of immature white blood cells in the peripheral smear. Typically, the immature white blood cells are being released prematurely by the bone marrow in order to combat some sort of infection.A increased number of white blood cells in the peripheral blood (choice a) is called a leukocytosis.A decreased number of white blood cells in the peripheral blood (choice b) is called a leukopenia. Hypersegmented granulocytes present in the peripheral blood (choice c) is a shift to the right.An increased number of immature red blood cells in the peripheral blood (choice e) is a reticulocytosis.