In our blood, we have many types of cells that work as a team to keep the body healthy. Among them are lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell that play a key role in the immune system. At times, the lymphocyte level may become higher than what is normal, which is what we term lymphocytosis.
A high lymphocyte count does not always equate to a disease. In many cases, it is a response to an infection that the body’s immune system is mounting. Also, if levels are very high for a long time, medical evaluation is advised to determine the cause.
What does high lymphocyte count mean?
Lymphocytes play a role in identifying and fighting off infections and other harmful substances. Also, we see a rise in their number when the immune system is responding to an illness.
In adults, it is noted that a lymphocyte count over 4,000 cells in a microliter of blood is usually reported as high, though at times this may differ between labs. In children, we see that they may in fact have a higher range of lymphocyte levels, which is normal for them.
Interestingly, some who present with lymphocytosis report no symptoms at all. When symptoms do present, they usually are a result of the condition that caused the elevated lymphocyte count and not the lymphocytes themselves.
Common Symptoms of High Lymphocyte Count
Possible symptoms can include:
- Fever or chills
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpits or groin area.
- Frequent or recurring infections
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent cough
- Muscle or joint aches
- Skin rashes
- Abdominal discomfort
- Reduced appetite
- Shortness of breath
These symptoms do not point to lymphocytosis. For instance, we see fatigue and fever in very common conditions like viral infections, which means that the presence of one or more of these symptoms is not a sure sign of a high lymphocyte count.
What Causes Lymphocytes to Increase?
Infections are reported to be the most common cause. As for viral illnesses like the flu and other infections, they may trigger the immune system, which in turn may cause a temporary increase in lymphocytes.
Others to consider are chronic inflammation, autoimmune conditions, physical or emotional stress, smoking, certain medications and recent immune system stimulation, which is a result of vaccination. Also, we see that at times persistent lymphocytosis is associated with blood disorders like some types of leukaemia or lymphoma.
Here is what we do: always put the blood test results in context of the person’s symptoms, medical history and other test results.
How Is High Lymphocyte Count Diagnosed?
A full blood count (FBC) is the initial test. They may also look at the absolute lymphocyte count and the percentage of lymphocytes within white blood cells.
If the results are abnormal, a health care professional may order repeat blood tests, as well as other tests for infections or autoimmune conditions, or special investigations like flow cytometry. In some cases, imaging or a bone marrow exam may be required.
When Should You See a Doctor?
An isolated slight increase in lymphocytes may be due to a recent infection, which may see a return to normal post-recovery. But persistent abnormalities should be paid attention to.
Seek professional health care if you have high lymphocyte levels with also lasting fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats which soak through the bed linen, recurring large lymph nodes, atypical fatigue or repeated infections.
Final Thoughts
Finding out your lymphocyte count is high from a blood test may be a cause for concern, especially when we don’t know the medical terms. But that doesn’t always mean there is a serious issue. In most cases, the immune system is responding to an infection or a temporary body change.
The best option is to review your full blood work and go over the results with a health care professional instead of trying to put together a diagnosis from your symptoms. Note also that paying attention to persistent changes that you see and obtaining the right medical input will clarify the situation and bring about peace of mind.9
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