Increasing Leukocyte and Neutrophil Count with Vitamin C Supplementation: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND

Current literature details the use of intravenous vitamin C to improve leukopenia; however, the use of oral vitamin C to improve leukopenia has been underexplored.

OBJECTIVE

This case study aimed to evaluate whether supplemental oral vitamin C could elevate leukocyte values in a 67-year-old African American male.

CASE REPORT: The patient had leukopenia for over 30 years, which prompted additional medical evaluation over the years. This evaluation included two bone marrow biopsies, both of which yielded normal findings. Although the individual was not traumatized by the medical concern and extensive testing for his neutropenia, he wanted to explore whether vitamin C could address his leukopenia. Over the course of one year, the individual took 5000-7000 mg of vitamin C daily in powdered and liposomal forms.

FINDINGS: 5000 - 7000 mg of vitamin C successfully increased white blood cell count (near the standard normal limits) and absolute neutrophil count in the African American male patient.

CONCLUSION

This case report details the use of supplemental oral vitamin C as a single intervention to improve leukopenia and neutropenia. However, more research is needed to determine if smaller doses could yield similar results.