ALC Formula:
From: | To: |
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 by the percentage of lymphocytes. It's an important parameter in assessing immune function.
The calculator uses the ALC formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts the relative percentage of lymphocytes into an absolute count per volume of blood.
Details: ALC is used to evaluate immune status, monitor chemotherapy patients, assess risk of infection, and diagnose lymphopenia or lymphocytosis.
Tips: Enter WBC count in cells/μL and lymphocyte percentage (from differential count). Both values must be positive numbers (lymphocyte percentage ≤100).
Q1: What is a normal ALC range?
A: Normal range is typically 1,000-4,800 cells/μL in adults, though ranges vary by age and laboratory.
Q2: What does a low ALC indicate?
A: Lymphopenia (ALC <1,000 cells/μL) may indicate immune deficiency, viral infection, or bone marrow suppression.
Q3: What does a high ALC indicate?
A: Lymphocytosis (ALC >4,800 cells/μL) may suggest viral infections, chronic inflammatory conditions, or lymphoid malignancies.
Q4: When should ALC be measured?
A: ALC is often monitored during chemotherapy, in HIV patients, and when evaluating recurrent infections.
Q5: Are there limitations to ALC interpretation?
A: ALC should be interpreted in clinical context along with other lab values and the patient's overall condition.