What is an Absolute Lymphocyte Count?
Lymphocytes are crucial immune cells that play an active role in the body’s defense mechanism. 3 types of lymphocytes are present in the body namely B cells, T cells, and natural killer cells. B cells are responsible for producing antibodies whereas T cells destroy the harmful foreign invaders. The natural killer cells are involved in limiting the spread of tumors and infections.
The absolute Lymphocyte Count measures the amount of lymphocytes in the blood. Elevated and lower levels of lymphocyte count indicate several infections, disorders of the immune system, and the effects of chemotherapy in individuals. Gaining insights about lymphocyte count is crucial in the diagnosis and early treatment of the diseases.
How is the Test Performed?
The Absolute Lymphocyte Count Test is derived from the Complete Blood Count (CBC) test with slight invasion with no to minimal discomfort in patients.
Preparation
- Generally, no dietary or medication is restricted during the test.
- You must inform your doctor in case you are on medications as he may advise you to stop certain medicines that may interfere with lymphocyte count.
- No fasting is required for an absolute lymphocyte count.
- It is advised to avoid vigorous exercise before the test.
Blood Draw
- Blood is drawn through a process of venipuncture that involves the use of a needle to draw blood from the vein, usually the vein in the arm.
- Then it is placed in special tubes.
Laboratory Analysis
- The sample is analyzed using automated hematology analyzers for accurate results.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
Healthcare providers generally recommend this test when individuals are showing signs and symptoms of compromised immune function or unexplained symptoms that might be related to abnormal lymphocyte count;
General symptoms
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Appetite loss
- Night sweats
- Fever with no known origin
- Joint pain, swelling and redness
- Bruising and bleeding
- Rashes or itching
- Recurrent infections
- Eczema
- Alopecia
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
Generally accepted values of absolute lymphocytes are mentioned below but it depends on the age, gender, and the laboratory methods used;
Adults – 1000-4800 cells/µL
Children – 3000-9500 cells/µL
**The reference values that are given above are for general guidelines only. Consult your healthcare provider for the correct evaluation of results. **
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
Abnormal levels of lymphocyte count suggest that the body’s health is compromised and is affected by any underlying condition;
High Levels of Absolute Lymphocyte Count
An increased lymphocyte count indicates that the body might be affected by the following conditions
- Certain types of infections including cytomegalovirus or mononucleosis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Inflammatory bowel diseases
- Hematological cancers
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Hypersensitivity induced due to medications
Low levels of Absolute Lymphocyte Count
Decreased levels of lymphocytes are suggestive of the following conditions.
- Infections such as HIV, typhoid fever, and flu
- Malnutrition
- Eating disorders like anorexia
- Blood disorders
- Certain types of cancers associated with blood
- Suppression of bone marrow due to chemotherapy, bone marrow diseases, or radiation therapy.
