High Lymphs?

Question

does any one know how high your blood lymphs have to be to be diagnosed with leukemia. My count is 58 and the normal is 14-46. is that dangerously high?

Answer 1

Your premise is wrong. Let me try to explain.

Leukemia is NOT only related to the lymphocytes. It can be within your body's granulocytic line or even monocytic line. (Those are the 3 main types of white blood cells.) As you stated, each type of cell is present in a typical range of numbers... the normal range. First off, normal ranges are only normal for about 95% of the population. Secondly, normal ranges vary due to factors like age and seasonal issues like colds and viruses.

Your lymphs are slightly elevated - that is true. BUT, if you are in school or around bunches of other people who have colds and other viruses, your body is responding quite normally by producing more lymphs. Those are the guys who are the first line of defense for a perceived assault by a virus. Lymphocytes are one of those cell lines that can change very quickly in response to outer stimuli. Again, that is one of your protection mechanisms. You've no doubt heard talk of the immune system. Well guess what, quite simplified, your lymphs are the basic blocks of that system! They are doing what they are born to do.

Many people in the medical field have lymphcytes that are in greater number than their granulocytes. That is due to relatively constant stimulation of the immune system. Because granulocytes are usually present in greater numbers than lymphs, med people often have what is called a "reversed population". Young people - including young adults, typically have this too.

So, back to your original question. Just because your lymphs are high, does not mean you have (or are developing) leukemia. I suspect that your total white blood cell count (WBC) is quite normal. As one cell line goes up in numbers, the others go down. Leukemia produces very high total WBC counts, as the sick cell line produces rapidly and unabated. Many more tests would have been ordered if your doc suspected something of this nature.

If you are concerned, check with your doc. I am sure he or she will tell you not to worry either. Remember, no question should remain unanswered when you are talking about your own medical care. So ask away!

Answer 2

High Lymphs

Answer 3

Lymphs High