"Lym" in blood refers to lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Lymphocytes play a crucial role in the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and diseases. They are produced in the bone marrow and circulate throughout the bloodstream and lymphatic system.
There are two main types of lymphocytes:
- B cells: These cells produce antibodies that recognize and attack specific pathogens (like viruses or bacteria).
- T cells: These cells directly destroy infected cells or activate other immune cells.
A normal lymphocyte count in adults is between 1,000 and 4,800 lymphocytes per microliter of blood. A high lymphocyte count, known as lymphocytosis, can be a sign of an infection. A low lymphocyte count can indicate a weakened immune system or certain conditions like HIV/AIDS or autoimmune diseases.
Example: A blood test that shows a high lymphocyte count might suggest an infection, while a low lymphocyte count could indicate a compromised immune system.
