Lymphocyte Count by Manual Differential Blood Cell Count
This test measures the number of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. It helps assess immune function and identify conditions affecting your immune system.
["This test helps doctors check if your immune system is working properly or if there’s an imbalance in your blood cell types."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71605-0
- Short code
- Lymphocytes NFr.DF Pcar Manual
- Synonyms
- Lymphocytes NFr.DF Pcar Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- 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 This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test to evaluate immune health, diagnose conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders, or monitor treatment responses. It’s often part of a complete blood count (CBC) but focuses specifically on lymphocytes.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch.
What the Test Results Mean
Results show the absolute number of lymphocytes per microliter of blood. Abnormal counts may suggest immune deficiencies, infections, or other health issues. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions Affecting Lymphocyte Counts
Low lymphocyte counts may indicate immune suppression, chronic illnesses, or certain medications. High counts can signal infections, inflammation, or overactive immune responses. These patterns often require further medical evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Lymphocyte counts are critical for diagnosing and managing immune-related disorders. They help identify whether your body is overreacting to infections, underproducing immune cells, or responding to treatments like chemotherapy or steroids.
Short name
Manual Lymphocyte Count
Frequently asked questions
What causes a low lymphocyte count?
What causes a high 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