Could 5% atypical lymphocytes indicate leukemia?
Atypical lymphocytes level 5 is not necessarily leukemia; it may also indicate infectious mononucleosis.
Atypical lymphocytes refer to lymphocytes that undergo morphological changes in response to infections such as viruses or protozoa, or due to drug allergies, radiation therapy, and similar conditions. After stimulation by viruses, drugs, or allergic reactions, these lymphocytes may proliferate abnormally. Under the microscope, they appear larger in size, with enlarged nuclei, deeper-staining cytoplasm, and may contain vacuoles. An increased number of atypical lymphocytes is commonly seen in conditions like infectious mononucleosis, EB virus infection, viral hepatitis, epidemic hemorrhagic fever, and eczema. Treatment may include antiviral medications such as acyclovir tablets or vidarabine injection. Leukemia, a malignant tumor of the hematopoietic system originating from hematopoietic stem cells or progenitor cells, can also cause elevated atypical lymphocytes. Leukemia can be treated through hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and chemotherapy.
Patients with elevated atypical lymphocytes should promptly visit a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. In daily life, enhancing one's immune resistance can help defend against viral infections.