What does it mean when lymphocytes are low but white blood cells are normal, and what should be done?
May 30, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
In general, low lymphocyte count with normal white blood cell count may be caused by conditions such as acute tonsillitis, pneumonia, or leukemia, and different causes require different treatment approaches. In addition, it may also be associated with diseases such as lymphocytopenia or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention when experiencing symptoms.
Generally, low lymphocyte count with normal white blood cell count may be caused by conditions such as acute tonsillitis, pneumonia, leukemia, and other reasons. Different causes require different treatment approaches. Specific details are as follows:
1. Acute Tonsillitis
Acute tonsillitis is an acute nonspecific inflammation of the palatine tonsils. If caused by a viral infection, patients may present with normal total white blood cell count but reduced lymphocyte count. Common symptoms include sore throat, chills, high fever, and others. It is recommended that patients follow medical advice to take medications such as penicillin V potassium tablets or amoxicillin capsules.
2. Pneumonia
Pneumonia occurs when pathogenic microorganisms infect the terminal airways, alveoli, and lung interstitium. Patients typically develop symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, and sputum production. Blood tests may show low lymphocyte count with normal white blood cell count due to the influence of the pathogens. It is recommended that patients follow medical advice to take medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets or cefaclor dispersible tablets.
3. Leukemia
Leukemia is a malignant disease caused by clonal proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow. Symptoms often include loss of appetite, night sweats, and weight loss. Blood tests commonly reveal low lymphocyte count with normal white blood cell count. Patients need to take medications such as hydroxyurea tablets or imatinib mesylate tablets under a doctor's guidance. When feasible, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation surgery may also be considered.
In addition, low lymphocyte count with normal white blood cell count may also be associated with conditions such as lymphocytopenia or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Patients should seek timely medical attention if experiencing any discomfort.
