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 total white blood cell count by the percentage of lymphocytes. It provides more clinically useful information than the percentage alone.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ALC formula:

Where:

• \( WBC\ Count \) — Total white blood cell count (cells/μL)
• \( Lymphocyte\ \% \) — Percentage of lymphocytes in differential count

Explanation: The formula converts the relative lymphocyte percentage into an absolute count, which is more meaningful for clinical interpretation.

3. Importance of ALC Calculation

Details: ALC is important for evaluating immune status, diagnosing lymphopenia or lymphocytosis, monitoring chemotherapy patients, and assessing viral infections or immune disorders.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter WBC count in cells/μL and lymphocyte percentage (without % sign). Both values must be positive numbers (WBC > 0, lymphocyte % 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 vary by age and laboratory.

Q2: When is ALC considered low (lymphopenia)?
A: Generally <1,000 cells/μL in adults, or <1,500 cells/μL in children. Critical if <500 cells/μL.

Q3: What causes high ALC (lymphocytosis)?
A: Viral infections, certain bacterial infections, leukemia, lymphoma, and autoimmune disorders.

Q4: How often should ALC be monitored?
A: Frequency depends on clinical context - daily for hospitalized patients, weekly for chemotherapy, or as needed for outpatient monitoring.

Q5: Are there limitations to ALC interpretation?
A: Yes, always interpret in clinical context. Some automated counters may misclassify atypical lymphocytes.