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Lymphocyte count (qualitative manual differential analysis)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test evaluates the proportion of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, in your blood using a manual microscopic differential count.

Quick summary

["Manual lymphocyte differential helps assess immune cell balance for conditions like infections or immune disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14821-3
Short code
Lymphocytes NFr Prt Manual
Synonyms
Lymphocytes NFr Prt 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
CPT
86592
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 affecting your immune system, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. It can also help track responses to treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand for a blood draw. The sample is then examined under a microscope by a trained technician to count and categorize white blood cells.

How the Results Are Interpreted

Results are qualitative (not expressed as a single number) and describe the relative percentages of lymphocyte subtypes (e.g., B cells, T cells, natural killer cells). Abnormal proportions may indicate immune dysfunction or disease.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps identify or manage conditions like chronic infections, lymphoma, leukemia, or immune deficiencies (e.g., HIV). It may also be used to evaluate immune responses to vaccines or treatments.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lymphocyte count (manual differential)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 24–48 hours, depending on lab workload and manual processing time.
Can fasting affect this test?
No, fasting is not required for this test since it involves a blood draw and does not measure substances affected by diet.
Is there any risk or discomfort with this procedure?
Minor discomfort (like a slight pinch) may occur during the blood draw, but complications are rare. Most people tolerate it well.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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