Lymphocyte is a type of leucocyte (White blood cell). It is mostly the30- 50% of the total leucocytes in the blood. They are produced in pluripotential stem cells. They are also a lymphocyte connective tissue cells. There are two main types of lymphocytes, B and T. The cells which migrate to timus are T cells and B cells develop and stay in the bone marrow. B cells produce antibodies that attack and damage bacteria and viruses. They account for immunologic memory for a more rapid and vigorous response to a second invasion of the same antigen. These cells are the cells that determine the spesificity of immune responses towards foreign substances. T cells multiply and differentiate to cytotoxic T cells and sent to peripheral tissues. In stimulation with antigen, they secrete cytokines stimulating B cells to promote antibody production. Cytotoxic T cells bind and kill infected cells and cancer cells. Spleen, tonsils and lymph nodes are lymphoid organs and tissues which they are present.
Interpretation: Lymphocytes can be counted in complete blood count (whole blood, CBC) test in which the levels of major white blood cell counts are performed. Lymphocytes below the normal range may reflect lymphocytopenia. This may be due to malnutrition, some rare inherited disorders(ataxia-talengiectiasa) or severe combined immunodeficiency syndrome. High counts indicate lymphocytosis. This may be due to infections such as mononucleosis or whooping cough, blood and lymphatic system cancers (multiple myeloma, chronic lymphocitic leukemia), autoimmune disorders that cause inflamation (Inflamatory Bowel’s Disease).
Sample: Arm vein plasma(EDTA). Nonfasting
Working day: Everyday
Result Time: 1 hour
