Stay ahead of immune health concerns with Scan4Health’s Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC) Test—a vital blood test that tells you exactly how many lymphocytes, a cornerstone of your immune system, are present in your bloodstream. From fighting infections to diagnosing autoimmune conditions and blood disorders, this routine test offers critical clues for your doctor to keep your defenses strong and targeted care within reach.

• Routine Preparation: No fasting is needed unless your doctor has requested other blood tests that require it. Maintain your regular meals and hydration.
• Medication Guidance: Share information on all regular medications and supplements with your physician, as some drugs (such as steroids, immunosuppressants, or chemotherapy) can affect white blood cell counts.
• Recent Illness: Inform your doctor about current or recent infections, fevers, or immunizations, since these can temporarily affect lymphocyte numbers.
• Symptoms: Record and mention any episodes of persistent fever, unusual fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, frequent infections, or unexplained weight loss for context.
• Procedure Comfort: Wear clothing that allows easy access to your arm for a painless blood draw.

The Absolute Lymphocyte Count Test measures the actual number of lymphocytes, a specialized type of white blood cell, in a microliter of blood. These cells are essential in protecting your body against viruses, bacteria, and abnormal or cancerous cells. There are three main lymphocyte types—T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells—each playing unique roles in immune surveillance and defense. This test is usually ordered as part of a complete blood count (CBC) with differential. Still, it offers especially valuable information for diagnosing and tracking immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases (such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease), blood cancers (such as leukemia or lymphoma), and for monitoring the effects of treatments like chemotherapy or immunosuppressant medications. During the test, your blood sample is collected at the lab. Automated analyzers precisely enumerate the lymphocyte count, reflecting your body’s ability to mount immune responses and resist illness. Typical values for adults typically range from 1,000 to 4,000 cells per microliter, though age and laboratory standards can cause minor variation. A high ALC is often linked to viral infections, some bacterial illnesses, chronic inflammation, or, rarely, blood cancers. A low count (lymphocytopenia) may indicate recent viral illness, underlying immune disorders, medication side effects, or chemotherapy, among other possible causes.

Choose Scan4Health for accurate, rapid immune cell assessment and straightforward answers. Book your Absolute Lymphocyte Count Test today and stay confidently in control of your immune wellbeing.