What Does The Lymphocytes Count Indicate?

Posted on Tue, 8 Apr 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 8 Apr 2014 Answered on

Mon, 28 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I had a COMPLETE BLOOD CELL COUNT test today and looks like my Lymphocyte count is low. Is there anyway I can fix this or improve the count? What are the consequences of Lymphocytes count being low? Please let me know how I can proceed Lymphocyte % 26.0 - 46.0 % 25 L

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Please find detailed answer below Detailed Answer: Hi XXXX, Thanks for writing in to us. I have read through your query. A lymphocyte count of 25% may not be abnormal as you think. As per the laboratory technique, your count is just below normal. It is usual to accept borderline values as normal in most patients. It is important to know why you got the tests done. I would like to know what is your absolute lymphocyte count if it has been done. That will give a more precise information on lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are any of the 3 types of white blood cells classified under T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes and natural killer cells which are part of the immune system. In your case there is nothing really to worry if you are not having any significant illness. Hope your query is answered. Do write back if you have any doubts. Regards, Dr.Vivek

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Vivek Chail (16 minutes later)

XXXXXXX Thanks for the reply. These tests are done to confirm if I have Anklosing spondilitis as they were not able to confirm anything with my Xray. I have been suffering with chronic back pain for past couple of months. I did not have absolute Lymphocyte count test to deteremine the actual count of the sub types. Regards, XXXX

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Please find detailed answer below Detailed Answer: Hi XXXX, Thanks for writing back to us. Lypmphocytes may be seen as low normal in ankylosing spondylitis. There are other tests which might help in the confirmation of the condition including HLA B27 and T cell subtypes. Please do not worry much about your lymphocyte count as you are already consulting your doctor and probably under regular follow up. Hope your query is answered. Do write back if you have any doubts. Regards, Dr.Vivek

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar