Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC)

• Test Name: Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC) Test
• Test Type: Hematology (blood) test
• Specimen Required: Whole blood sample, typically collected from a vein
• Methodology: Measures the absolute number of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) in the blood using an automated cell counter or manual calculation based on a complete blood count (CBC).
• Purpose: Helps assess the immune system function by determining the number of lymphocytes, which play a critical role in fighting infections.

• Immune System Evaluation: Used to evaluate immune function, particularly in individuals with conditions affecting lymphocyte production or function.
• Monitoring: Monitors diseases or treatments that impact the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or autoimmune disorders.
• Infection Assessment: Assesses the body’s response to infections, as lymphocyte levels often change during viral infections.
• Haematological Disorders: Aids in diagnosing and monitoring blood disorders, such as lymphomas or leukaemias.

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): ALC is usually part of a CBC, which includes other parameters like total white blood cell count, red blood cell count, and platelets.
• Automated Cell Counting: ALC is measured directly using an automated haematology analyzer.
• Manual Calculation: In some cases, ALC is calculated manually by multiplying the percentage of lymphocytes by the total white blood cell count from the CBC.

• Normal Range: The normal range for adults typically falls between 1,000 to 4,800 lymphocytes per microliter of blood, though ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratory.
• Elevated Lymphocyte Count (Lymphocytosis): Indicates possible viral infections, chronic infections, or conditions like chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL).
• Decreased Lymphocyte Count (Lymphocytopenia): Suggests possible immune suppression due to conditions like HIV, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or certain autoimmune diseases.

• Turnaround Time: Results are typically available within a few hours to a day, depending on the laboratory.
• Reporting: Results are provided as the absolute number of lymphocytes per microliter of blood.
• Follow-up: Abnormal results may prompt further investigation, including additional blood tests, imaging, or specialist consultations depending on the underlying cause.
• Clinical Action: Treatment or monitoring may be adjusted based on lymphocyte counts, particularly in cases of immune system disorders, infections, or haematological diseases.

Q. What is an Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC) Test?
The ALC test measures the total number of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) in your blood to assess immune function and overall health
 

Q. Why would I need an Absolute Lymphocyte Count Test?
This test is used to evaluate immune system health, monitor blood disorders, assess response to infections, or track the effects of treatments like chemotherapy or HIV therapy
 

Q. How is the Absolute Lymphocyte Count Test performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, and the number of lymphocytes is measured using an automated analyzer or calculated from a complete blood count (CBC)
 

Q. What is considered a normal lymphocyte count?
A normal absolute lymphocyte count typically ranges from 1,000 to 4,800 lymphocytes per microliter of blood in adults, though normal values can vary depending on the lab
 

Q. What does a high lymphocyte count mean?
High lymphocyte counts (lymphocytosis) can indicate viral infections, chronic infections, or certain blood cancers, such as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)
 

Q. What does a low lymphocyte count mean?
Low lymphocyte counts (lymphocytopenia) can occur due to immune suppression, such as from HIV infection, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or autoimmune diseases
 

Q. Do I need to prepare for the Absolute Lymphocyte Count Test?
No special preparation is needed for this test, but it’s important to inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking as they may affect your lymphocyte levels