What does it mean when white blood cells are normal but lymphocytes are low, and what should be done?
May 30, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
In general, when white blood cell count is normal but lymphocyte count is low, it may be caused by physiological factors, or by pathological factors such as medication use or acute pneumonia. Different causes require different treatment approaches. Besides the above-mentioned reasons, other conditions such as acute tonsillitis, leukemia, or AIDS could also be responsible. Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention at a正规 hospital.
White blood cells include lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils, etc. Under normal circumstances, if white blood cell count is within the normal range while lymphocyte count is low, this may be caused by physiological factors or pathological factors such as medication use or acute pneumonia. Different causes require different treatment approaches. The details are as follows:
I. Physiological Factors
Frequent熬夜 (staying up late) or engaging in heavy physical labor can lead to excessive fatigue, which may result in a physiological state where white blood cell counts remain normal but lymphocyte counts are low, without obvious abnormal symptoms. Usually, no special treatment is required; simply eliminating these adverse factors is sufficient.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Medication Factors
Long-term use of immunosuppressive agents, such as cyclophosphamide tablets or tacrolimus capsules, may cause a decrease in lymphocytes while white blood cell counts remain normal. Generally, no special intervention is needed, but regular follow-up tests are recommended. If both white blood cells and lymphocytes show significant reductions, medication should be discontinued or adjusted according to medical advice.
2. Acute Pneumonia
Caused by pathogenic microbial infection, acute pneumonia leads to symptoms such as body aches, headache, and cough. Due to the presence of infection, the aforementioned blood profile changes may occur. Patients are advised to take medications such as amoxicillin capsules or cefuroxime axetil tablets as directed by their physician.
Besides the above-mentioned causes, other conditions such as acute tonsillitis, leukemia, or AIDS could also be responsible. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital (qualified medical institution).
