Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Blood Test Shows No Atypical Lymphocytes. Should I Be Concerned?
My 88 year old mother's blood test showed no report of atypical lymphocytes in November, 2012. In March, 2013 it
showed .l and in June, 2013 it read .8. We cannot think of any infections going on at the times. We will test
again next week. Should it read anything again, should I be concerned and what should be our next step to take?
showed .l and in June, 2013 it read .8. We cannot think of any infections going on at the times. We will test
again next week. Should it read anything again, should I be concerned and what should be our next step to take?
Sat, 17 Aug 2013
Hello and welcome to HCM,
Atypical lymphocytes are seen in viral infections and lymphoid malignancies.
You have mentioned that the number of atypical lymphocytes increased from 1 in March 2013 to 8 in June 2013.
Yes, a repeat test should be done.
The possibility of infection is high since, the number of atypical cells is low.
Is there any associated enlarged lymph node(s).
Sometimes lymphoid malignancy of lymph node (lymphoma) can spill over into the blood and these cells are reported as atypical lymphocytes.
If any enlarged lymph node is present, an aspiration cytology/ biopsy needs to be done.
If lymphoid malignancy is detected, immune markers should be done.
Get the test done and consult your hematologist to know the cause of atypical lymphocytes (if present this time too).
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
Atypical lymphocytes are seen in viral infections and lymphoid malignancies.
You have mentioned that the number of atypical lymphocytes increased from 1 in March 2013 to 8 in June 2013.
Yes, a repeat test should be done.
The possibility of infection is high since, the number of atypical cells is low.
Is there any associated enlarged lymph node(s).
Sometimes lymphoid malignancy of lymph node (lymphoma) can spill over into the blood and these cells are reported as atypical lymphocytes.
If any enlarged lymph node is present, an aspiration cytology/ biopsy needs to be done.
If lymphoid malignancy is detected, immune markers should be done.
Get the test done and consult your hematologist to know the cause of atypical lymphocytes (if present this time too).
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
I find this answer helpful
Note: Do you have more questions on diagnosis or treatment of blood disorders? Ask An Expert/ Specialist Now
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Biopsy
Loading Online Doctors....