Lymphocytes are a subtype of white blood cells that play a key role in defending the body against infections.
The ALC test provides the exact number of lymphocytes per microliter of blood, rather than just a percentage.
It is often part of a Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential.
Doctors use ALC to evaluate:
Immune system strength.
Response to infections (viral, bacterial, parasitic).
Blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma.
Autoimmune disorders or immunodeficiency conditions.
Both low counts (lymphocytopenia) and high counts (lymphocytosis) can indicate underlying health issues.