Lymphocyte Count (Qualitative or Quantitative Analysis of White Blood Cell Differential)
This test helps assess the number and type of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) in your blood, which can provide clues about immune function, infections, or certain health conditions.
["Understanding your lymphocyte levels can help guide treatment or monitor your immune health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40538-1
- Short code
- Lymphocytes NFr DiafP Manual
- Synonyms
- Lymphocytes NFr DiafP Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 82105
- SNOMED
- 394971007
- 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 diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders. It can also help evaluate immune responses before treatments like chemotherapy or organ transplants.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. It’s typically done by drawing a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. If you’re concerned about pain or discomfort, let your healthcare provider know.
What the Test Results Mean
Results may show whether your lymphocyte count is higher or lower than usual. High levels could indicate an infection, inflammation, or certain cancers. Low levels might suggest immune deficiencies, chronic illnesses, or side effects from treatments.
Common Conditions Linked to Lymphocyte Levels
Changes in lymphocyte counts are often linked to immune-related conditions, such as leukemia, HIV/AIDS, or chronic infections like tuberculosis. They can also reflect how your body responds to treatments for cancer or other diseases.
Reference range
Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Abnormal lymphocyte counts can signal underlying health issues, such as immune system dysfunction, infections, or malignancies. Your healthcare provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Short name
Lymphocyte Analysis
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘lymphocyte analysis’ mean in my blood test results?
Can diet or supplements affect lymphocyte counts?
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