1. What is Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC)?

The Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC) is a measure of the total number of lymphocytes in the blood, calculated by multiplying the white blood cell count (WBC) by the percentage of lymphocytes. It's an important parameter in evaluating immune system function.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ALC formula:

Where:

• \( WBC \) — White blood cell count (cells/μL)
• \( Lymph \) — Lymphocyte percentage (%)
• \( ALC \) — Absolute lymphocyte count (cells/μL)

Explanation: The formula converts the percentage of lymphocytes to an absolute count by factoring in the total white blood cell count.

3. Importance of ALC Calculation

Details: ALC is crucial for assessing immune status, diagnosing lymphopenia or lymphocytosis, and monitoring conditions like HIV, autoimmune diseases, and chemotherapy effects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter WBC in cells/μL and lymphocyte percentage (%). Both values must be positive numbers (WBC > 0, Lymph between 0-100).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal ALC range?
A: Normal range is typically 1,000-4,800 cells/μL in adults, though ranges may vary slightly by laboratory.

Q2: What does a low ALC indicate?
A: Low ALC (lymphopenia) may suggest immune deficiency, viral infections, autoimmune disorders, or bone marrow suppression.

Q3: What does a high ALC indicate?
A: High ALC (lymphocytosis) may indicate viral infections, certain bacterial infections, or lymphoproliferative disorders.

Q4: When should ALC be measured?
A: ALC is typically part of a complete blood count (CBC) with differential and is useful when evaluating infections or immune disorders.

Q5: Are there limitations to ALC interpretation?
A: ALC should always be interpreted in clinical context along with other lab values and patient history.