Atypical lymphocytosis is when lymphocytes respond to exposure to antigen, often due to bacterial or viral infections. It can also be caused by allergens, fungi, autoimmune diseases, vaccinations, drug reactions, and cancer treatments. Diagnosis is done through blood tests and treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Atypical lymphocytosis occurs when lymphocytes, specific types of white blood cells, respond to exposure to antigen. Lymphocytes often become atypical in response to a bacterial or viral infection. They can also become atypical from a large invasion of other antigens, such as allergens or fungi.
Lymphocytosis is the term used to describe when white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, are elevated. Each type of white blood cell has a different role in helping the immune system fight off antigens. T-cell lymphocytes trigger the production of antibodies. B-cell lymphocytes sense the presence of antigens and stimulate other white blood cells in response.
Although problems such as cancer or STDs cause an increase in white blood cells, they are usually not responsible for creating atypical lymphocytosis. An increase in lymphocytes occurs directly as a response to exposure to antigen in the body. The term is just another way to describe the normal functions of the immune system.
Atypical lymphocytosis is most commonly attributed to viral and bacterial diseases. It can also be the result of some types of autoimmune diseases. Vaccinations, drug reactions, and radiation or chemotherapy treatments can also cause elevated lymphocytes to become atypical.
A person of any age can develop atypical lymphocytosis, but there are some people who are more susceptible than others. Children under the age of two do not have a developed immune system. Adults with connective tissue disease or otherwise weakened immune systems may have an increase in atypical lymphocytes. Patients with acute or chronic leukemia may also have an increase in atypical lymphocytes.
To determine the presence of atypical lymphocytosis, doctors do standard blood tests. The lymphocyte count in the sample should be high. Once the increase is discovered, a peripheral blood smear is done. A drop of blood is smeared on a slide. The sample is dried, colored with a dye and then dried again. Atypical lymphocytes stain a darker blue than normal lymphocytes.
Treatments for atypical lymphocytosis vary. The proper treatment will depend on the cause of the increase in lymphocytes. If underlying conditions are the cause, they need to be treated. For common causes, such as viral or bacterial invasions, antibiotics can help reduce cell counts to normal levels.
Prescription drugs are highly effective common treatments, but they are only part of the treatment plan. Vitamin supplements, especially vitamins B and C, can also be helpful. Vitamins can aid the efforts of the immune system. Increasing healthy foods is an additional option.
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