1. What is Absolute Lymphocyte Count?

The Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC) measures the actual number of lymphocyte cells in a blood sample. It's calculated by multiplying the total white blood cell count by the percentage of lymphocytes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ALC formula:

Where:

• \( WBC \) — White blood cell count (cells/μL)
• \( Lymph\% \) — Percentage of lymphocytes in differential count

Explanation: The formula converts the relative percentage of lymphocytes into an absolute count, which is more clinically meaningful.

3. Importance of ALC Calculation

Details: ALC is crucial for evaluating immune function, diagnosing lymphopenia or lymphocytosis, and monitoring conditions like HIV/AIDS, autoimmune diseases, and post-chemotherapy recovery.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter WBC count in cells/μL and lymphocyte percentage (from differential count). Both values must be positive numbers (lymph % typically between 20-40% in adults).

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 this varies by age and laboratory standards.

Q2: When is ALC considered low?
A: Lymphopenia is generally defined as ALC <1,000 cells/μL in adults or <1,500 cells/μL in children.

Q3: What causes high ALC?
A: Lymphocytosis can result from viral infections, chronic inflammatory conditions, or certain leukemias/lymphomas.

Q4: How often should ALC be monitored?
A: Frequency depends on the clinical situation - from daily in hospitalized patients to annually in routine checkups.

Q5: Does ALC replace a full differential count?
A: No, ALC complements but doesn't replace examination of all white blood cell types in a differential count.