HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

What Does This Lymphocyte Count Indicate?

Posted on Fri, 2 May 2014

Question: I have a question about the abs lymphocyte value. I was looking over my labwork dating back to 2011 and my abs lymph number has either been 3.3 or 3.4 with an occasional dip to 2.8. I get my labs tested ever 4 months as i take a medication Humira. I switched to a new lab and these values, 3.3 or 3.4, are now flagged as high. My previous lab had a normal value up to 4. I have read that lymphocytosis is strongly related to Leukemia and my risk for this cancer is higher than average because of the Humira. I did a google search and read that lymphocytosis occures when the lymph value exceeds 4. Do i have a reason to be concerned here with my values even though they are consistent.

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (8 hours later)

Brief Answer: Considerations Detailed Answer: Hello and thank you for sending the question. I see no evidence of leukemia in your case. Your lymphocyte count has been relatively stable. I am not sure what has caused significant concern. Generally in the setting of lymphocytic leukemia the absolute lymphocyte count steadily rises over time or sometimes even if it remains in a slightly elevated state. In your case however there is no evidence of leukemia. If you are really suspicious you might ask your doctor to perform a flow cytometry study. Immunosuppression can increase the risk of development of some types of leukemia and lymphoma. I understand why you are worried but I wanted to provide you with some reassurance at this time. If you are continually concerned I would recommend that you request a formal consultation with a local hematologist. This physician can request additional studies to confirm what I believe is the case for you.Thank you again for sending your question. Please work on continuing a healthy lifestyle and diet with regular exercise. If you have additional concerns we would be happy to discuss them with you. Sincerely, Dr. Galamaga

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Robert Galamaga (19 minutes later)

I was going through my medical records and noticed that the level has been flagged. I take Humira for Crohn's. Can Crohn's the value to be higher? I searched on Google and everything related to high lymph was related to virus' s and cancer.

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (24 hours later)

Brief Answer: Followup Detailed Answer: thanks for the additional information. I would avoid google for searches. stick to reliable sources: webMD, medscape, MayoClinic. Autoimmune disease is associated with an elevated risk for lymphomas - BUT that does not mean you will be affected by cancer! Please try not to focus on this as it can become very anxiety provoking. find a physician you can trust and have them monitor your counts. thanks again for the query, Dr Galamaga.

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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar