**Core Concept**
Physiological leukocytosis refers to the transient and harmless increase in white blood cell (WBC) count in response to stress, exercise, or other non-infectious stimuli. This phenomenon is characterized by an increase in the total WBC count, primarily due to an elevation in neutrophil count.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Physiological leukocytosis occurs due to the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which stimulate the bone marrow to release stored neutrophils into the circulation. This process is mediated by the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The resulting increase in neutrophil count is a normal response to physical stress, exercise, or other non-infectious stimuli.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because physiological leukocytosis is not typically associated with a significant increase in lymphocytes.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because infection-induced leukocytosis is a pathologic response, not a physiological one.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because chronic inflammation is associated with a different type of leukocytosis, characterized by an increase in lymphocytes and monocytes.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Physiological leukocytosis can be a normal response to exercise, especially in individuals who are physically fit. However, it's essential to differentiate between physiological and pathologic leukocytosis, as the latter may indicate an underlying infection or inflammatory process.

**Correct Answer:** C.