What does it mean when lymphocytes are low?
Low lymphocyte levels mean the body may have a harder time fighting off viral infections. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that includes T cells and B cells, which help target viruses and other invaders.
When lymphocyte counts are low, the immune system can't detect or Show Full Answer
What does it mean when lymphocytes are low?
Low lymphocyte levels mean the body may have a harder time fighting off viral infections. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that includes T cells and B cells, which help target viruses and other invaders.
When lymphocyte counts are low, the immune system can't detect or fight viral infections as easily as usual. This condition can be caused by leukemia itself or by leukemia treatments like chemotherapy.
Low white blood cell counts overall (called leukopenia) mean the body's ability to fight infection is impaired. This can lead to more frequent infections with symptoms like:
* Fever or chills
* Sinus infections
* Bladder infections
* Lung infections or pneumonia
* Skin infections
* Mouth sores or sore throat
It's important to let your dad's healthcare team know about the low lymphocyte count. They can monitor his levels and may recommend precautions to reduce infection risk or treatments to help support his immune system.
February 16
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