Lymphocytosis is an increase in the number or proportion of lymphocytes in the blood. Absolute lymphocytosis is the condition where there is an increase in the lymphocyte count beyond the normal range while relative lymphocytosis refers to the condition where the proportion of lymphocytes relative to white blood cell count is above the normal range. In adults, absolute lymphocytosis is present when the lymphocyte count is greater than 5000 per microliter (5.0 x 109/L), in older children greater than 7000 per microliter and in infants greater than 9000 per microliter.[1] Lymphocytes normally represent 20% to 40% of circulating white blood cells. When the percentage of lymphocytes exceeds 40%, it is recognized as relative lymphocytosis. Show Causes[edit]Lymphocytosis is a feature of infection, particularly in children. In the elderly, lymphoproliferative disorders, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia and lymphomas, often present with lymphadenopathy and a lymphocytosis.[citation needed] Causes of absolute lymphocytosis include:
Causes of relative lymphocytosis include:
Diagnosis[edit]Lymphocytosis is usually detected when a complete blood count is obtained. If not provided the lymphocyte count can be calculated by multiplying the total white blood cell (WBC) count by the percentage of lymphocytes found in the differential count.[13] The lymphocyte count can also be directly measured by flow cytometry.[citation needed] See also[edit]
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External links[edit]What is the difference between lymphocytes percentage and absolute lymphocytes?An absolute lymphocytes count tells you the number of cells as an absolute number instead of as a percentage. Multiply your total number of white blood cells by the percentage of your white blood cells that are lymphocytes to get your absolute lymphocytes count.
Why would lymphocyte percentage be high?If your doctor determines that your lymphocyte count is high, the test result might be evidence of one of the following conditions: Infection (bacterial, viral, other) Cancer of the blood or lymphatic system. An autoimmune disorder causing ongoing (chronic) inflammation.
What level of lymphocytes indicate cancer?The number of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, increases with certain types of cancers. Therefore, a lymphocyte count of more than 5,000 B cells per μl of blood indicates the possibility of cancer. However, increased lymphocytes also occur with other conditions, such as infections and inflammatory diseases.
What percentage of lymphocytes is too high?Lymphocytes normally represent 20% to 40% of circulating white blood cells. When the percentage of lymphocytes exceeds 40%, it is recognized as relative lymphocytosis.
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