Lymphocyte Count in Whole Blood (Absolute Lymphocyte Count)
This test measures the number of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Lymphocytes help fight infections and are part of your immune system.
["Lymphocytes help protect your body from infections and diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26476-2
- Short code
- Lymphocytes # Fld
- Synonyms
- Lymphocytes # Fld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order this test to check for infections, monitor immune function, diagnose conditions like leukemia, or evaluate responses to treatments such as chemotherapy or immune-modifying therapies.
What Does a Low or High Count Mean?
A low lymphocyte count may indicate weakened immunity, chronic illnesses, or certain medications. A high count could suggest overactive immune responses, infections, or conditions like lymphoma.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to count the lymphocytes.
What Are Common Causes?
Factors like infections, stress, certain medications, or underlying health conditions (such as HIV or autoimmune diseases) can affect lymphocyte levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Lymphocyte counts are critical for diagnosing and managing immune-related disorders. Abnormal levels can signal infections, cancers, or immune system dysfunctions that require further medical evaluation.
Short name
Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC)
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal ranges for this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect my lymphocyte count?
How often should I get this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy