What Causes Elevated Lymphocyte Count In Blood?

Posted on Fri, 13 May 2016

Question: I have had 3 CBCs done in the past 8 months and the lymphocyte count has always been a little elevated. The latest one shows lymphcytes to be 45.4% and the absolute count to be 3.38. I did show it to a GP once but he brushed it aside saying it's nothing. But I don't know, why would the count be always slightly elevated? Should I be worried?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (35 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Lymphocyte count is only mildly raised and generally it is not serious.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for writing to HCM

Raised lymphocyte count may be due to many causes like viral infection,tuberculosis,myeloproliferative disorder(type of malignancy) etc.

I presume that you don't have any symptoms at present and lymphocyte count is only mildly raised,so I don't think it is a serious finding.
Other findings like total WBC,RBC and platelet count etc are normal.This is in our favour and it excludes malignancy etc.

Generally raised lymphocyte count persist after for some weeks or months but it may be prolonged in your case.

If you are asymptomatic then it is not a matter of concern.However you may need clinical correlation.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your query.

Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr. Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Indu Kumar (55 minutes later)

Thanks Dr, but what about the Lymphocyte % which is 45.4%, much higher than the normal 40% limit?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It is not very serious.Get CBC done after 3 months.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for writing to HCM

It is not very serious.Get CBC done after 3 months.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your query.

Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr. Indu XXXXXXX

Note: Do you have more questions on diagnosis or treatment of blood disorders? Ask An Expert/ Specialist Now

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad