When studying the leukocyte formula, the relative number of lymphocytes is necessarily determined. Their rate in a healthy person is 19-37%. This type of leukocytes is responsible for the full functioning of cellular (T-lymphocytes), humoral (B-lymphocytes) immunity, as well as for the destruction of atypical cells (NK-lymphocytes).
Thanks to these shaped elements, an immunological memory is realized in the body, on the basis of which the vaccination system is built, and the immunity itself quickly and easily eliminates infections with which it has already been in the past. It is B-lymphocytes that are responsible for the production of circulating antibodies that recognize the introduction of foreign antigens into the body and activate subsequent immune links aimed at eliminating them.
Lymphocytosis - an increase in LYMPH - is characteristic of:
Most viral infections (influenza, SARS, herpes, hepatitis, measles, rubella, mononucleosis, chickenpox);
Certain bacterial diseases (whooping cough, tuberculosis, syphilis);
Leishmaniasis, toxoplasmosis;
Allergic diseases during periods of exacerbation;
Lymphocytic leukemia.
A low amount is noted when:
Suppression of the immune system by immunosuppressants, glucocorticoids, radiation therapy and chemotherapy;
Immunodeficiency;
Lymphoma, lymphosarcoma, some leukemias;
Bone marrow depletion and anemia associated with a deficiency of iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid.
Even if there are no symptoms of the above conditions, it is necessary to examine lymphocytes in a general blood test at least once a year for prophylactic purposes to exclude diseases that do not have obvious manifestations for a long period.
