- Product description:
- Overview:
What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to measure the levels of lymphocytes in blood. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cells and play an important part in the immune system.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- As a part of complete blood count
- To measure the levels of lymphocytes
- To help in indicating the presence of bacterial or viral infections
- To help in diagnosing certain cancers, and autoimmune diseases.
- What is lymphocytosis and lymphocytopenia?
Lymphocytosis is an abnormal increase in the concentration of lymphocytes while lymphocytopenia is an abnormal decrease in the concentration of lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cells and play an important part in the immune system.
- What are the causes of lymphocytopenia?
- Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and myasthenia gravis
- Certain cancers
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
- Infections
- Aplastic anemia
- Malnutrition
- Certain drugs
- What are the causes of lymphocytosis?
- Infections
- Cancers
- HIV
- Hepatitis
- Autoimmune disorders
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. Inform your doctor about the use of all prescribed and non-prescribed medicines. Wear a short-sleeved shirt to aid the collection of sample.
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness.