Lymphocyte Counts
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Definition of Lymphocyte Counts
Lymphocytes (monomorphonuclear lymphocytes) are cells present in the blood and lymphatic tissue. Lymphocytes are derived from the stem cells from which all blood cells arise. They are the main means of providing the body with immune capability.
Description of Lymphocyte Counts
The lymph channels (lymphatics) are an extensive system of branching vessels that carry the lymphatic fluid formed in the tissues back to the bloodstream. Along the channels of the larger lymph vessels are clusters of lymph nodes. There are hundreds of lymph nodes in the body. Lymph nodes are normally small, soft and flat. The majority of nodes in most healthy people cannot be felt, though in some healthy individuals, especially children, small nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin may be palpable (felt).
The lymph nodes help fight disease by filtering invading organisms out of the lymph fluid and by producing cells and antibodies that attack them. Thus, in the presence of certain infections and some other diseases, the lymph nodes may enlarge as part of the body's defense reaction.
It is believed that lymphocytes are responsible for the storage of immunologic memory. This means that a second contact with an antigen elicits an accelerated and increased response.
The normal values of lymphocytes are 20 to 40 percent of total leukocyte count (relative value) or 10,000-4,000/mm3.
Clinical Implications
Lymphocytosis (a potentially abnormal increase in the amount of circulating lymphocytes) is measured with the following values:
- Above 9000/mm3 in infants and young children ages 4 years and younger
- Above 7000/mm3 in children ages 5 through 12 years
- Above 4000/mm3 in people 13 years and older
Conditions causing or associated with lymphocytosis:
Are there any other defects that may cause an increase or decrease in lymphocytes?
