If the lymphocyte is elevated in the blood - what does it mean?

One of the most important components of the immune system are lymphocytes. These blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and play a special role in the human body. So, lymphocytes are responsible for recognition of foreign cells and develop immunity to them. And an elevated lymphocyte count in the blood (lymphocytosis) signals that something is going wrong with the body. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly give blood for a general analysis in time to recognize any dangerous disease. When analyzing blood, laboratory technicians produce a simple count. To find the desired quantity of lymphocytes per volume unit of blood, the number of leukocytes must be multiplied by their percentage and divided by one hundred. Based on the results obtained, it is determined whether the indicators are normal, and if it appears that the lymphocyte is elevated in the blood or lowered, then it is necessary to consult a doctor. The doctor will determine the cause of the abnormality and prescribe adequate treatment.

What does it mean: increased lymphocytes in the blood?

As mentioned above, lymphocytes are responsible for the production of antibodies in the blood, and also regulate the work of other cells responsible for the immune system. Therefore, if the number of these blood cells rises, it means that the body is attacked by some kind of virus. The viruses to which the body responds to lymphocytosis include the smallpox virus, pertussis, typhoid fever, syphilis, and HIV infection. Also, poisoning with arsenic, carbon disulphide or lead gives an increase in the number of lymphocytes in the analysis. In addition, if the lymphocyte is elevated in the blood, it can signal a serious oncological disease: leukemia, Franklin's disease, lymphosarcoma and other blood pathologies.

The norm of lymphocytes in children and adults

Lymphocytes, as a rule, range from twenty-five to forty percent of the total number of leukocytes. But this indicator can vary depending on the age of a person. At the child in the first two years of life, 37-60 percent of lymphocytes are considered normal. Then the indices decrease: in children by the eighth year of life the number of these blood cells decreases to fifty percent, in adolescents to forty-five. Therefore, in order to determine whether the lymphocyte is elevated in the blood or not, it is necessary to take into account the age category of a person.

Reduced norm of lymphocytes (lymphopenia)

It is possible to talk about lymphopenia if the number of these cells in the blood is less than 1.00 × 10 ⁹ / l. This condition can indicate such diseases as renal failure, lymphogranulomatosis, prolonged stress, dystrophy, prolonged fasting, certain forms of leukemia.

Treatment of lymphocytosis and lymphopenia

If the level of lymphocytes deviates from the norm, in no case should self-medication be done. The doctor must appoint an additional examination of the blood, a chest X-ray and only after that prescribe a treatment. Remember that you can not hesitate to consult a doctor with a poor blood test. Because once he can accurately say why the lymphocyte is elevated in the blood or lowered. Be always healthy!