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Lymphocyte Subpopulation Analysis by Flow Cytometry (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures different types of white blood cells called lymphocytes in your blood, which helps assess immune function and identify potential immune disorders.

Quick summary

["Understanding your lymphocyte counts can help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting your immune system."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54226-6
Short code
Lymphoma Pnl Spec FC
Synonyms
Lymphoma Pnl Spec FC
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
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, detect lymphomas or other blood cancers, monitor treatment responses, or investigate symptoms like frequent infections, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein for a blood draw, similar to other routine blood tests. The process usually takes a few minutes.

How the Test Works

Blood is collected and analyzed using flow cytometry, a technique that separates and identifies different lymphocyte types (e.g., B cells, T cells, natural killer cells) based on their unique surface markers.

What the Results Mean

Results provide percentages or absolute counts of lymphocyte subtypes, helping doctors compare your levels to expected ranges for your age and health status. Abnormal findings may signal immune deficiencies, infections, or diseases like leukemia.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lymphocyte Profile

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal lymphocyte counts?
Abnormal lymphocyte counts can result from infections (e.g., viral/bacterial), autoimmune diseases, cancers (e.g., lymphoma), or immune system disorders. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine the cause.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition. Some patients need this test annually or more often if they have chronic illnesses, cancer, or immune-related treatments. Follow your doctor’s recommendations.
Can lifestyle changes affect these results?
Yes, stress, diet, infections, or medications (e.g., steroids) can temporarily alter lymphocyte counts. Avoiding recent illnesses or infections before testing may improve accuracy, but results should be interpreted in context with your overall health.
  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