What does it mean when lymphocytes are low in cirrhosis?
Disease description:
My friend has had cirrhosis for a long time. During a follow-up examination at the hospital yesterday, the doctor mentioned that his lymphocyte count was low. Why do lymphocytes become low in cirrhosis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
The main reasons for low lymphocyte counts in patients with cirrhosis include:
1. Suppressed hematopoietic function: Cirrhosis may inhibit hematopoietic function, thereby reducing lymphocyte production.
2. Increased immune consumption: Cirrhosis may trigger immune dysfunction. Following pathogen infection, lymphocytes activate defensive mechanisms, leading to increased lymphocyte consumption.
3. Lymphocyte damage: Cirrhosis may be accompanied by other complications, such as hypersplenism, resulting in blood cell destruction, including reduced lymphocytes.
4. Viral infection: Viruses such as HIV may damage lymphocytes, leading to reduced lymphocyte counts.
