What does it mean when neutrophils and lymphocytes are elevated in a routine blood test, and what should be done?
May 30, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
In general, an elevated neutrophil count in a routine blood test may result from physiological factors or pathological conditions such as diabetes or organ transplant rejection. Different causes require different management approaches. Additionally, it may be associated with conditions like drug toxicity, uremia, lymphoma, or acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention.
Under normal circumstances, elevated neutrophil lymphocytes in a routine blood test may be caused by physiological factors, or by pathological conditions such as diabetes or organ transplant rejection. Different causes require different management approaches. Specific details are as follows:
1. Physiological Factors
Neutrophil lymphocytosis may occur during late pregnancy, after intense exercise, or following physical labor. This elevation is usually temporary and gradually returns to normal once the influencing factors are removed. Special treatment is generally not required.
2. Pathological Factors
1) Diabetes
In diabetic patients, various triggers can lead to significant insulin deficiency and markedly increased blood glucose levels. Patients may experience symptoms such as excessive thirst, increased appetite, fatigue, and nausea. A routine blood test may show elevated neutrophil lymphocytes. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as recombinant human insulin injection or glibenclamide tablets. Additionally, they should pay attention to dietary control and avoid foods high in sugar.
2) Organ Transplant Rejection
After organ transplantation, the transplanted tissue may trigger an immune rejection reaction with the recipient's immune cells. An increase in neutrophil lymphocytes often appears before clinical signs of rejection, accompanied by symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest tightness. Patients must avoid strenuous activities and fatigue, and take immunosuppressive medications such as cyclosporine soft capsules or tacrolimus extended-release capsules as prescribed to prevent rejection.
Besides the above, elevated neutrophil lymphocytes may also be associated with drug toxicity, uremia, lymphoma, or acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation.
