Lymphocytes
Haematology marker
Lymphocytes
Category: Haematology
Unit: x10^9/L
White blood cells important for adaptive immunity (B cells, T cells, NK cells).
PED Notes
Can be suppressed by overtraining or extreme caloric restriction during contest prep. Chronic low lymphocytes may indicate immune suppression.
When high
When high (lymphocytosis, >4.0 x10^9/L):
- Usually viral infection (EBV, CMV, influenza) -- transient and self-limiting
- Persistent lymphocytosis without infection warrants investigation
When low
When low (lymphopenia, <1.0 x10^9/L):
Common causes in athletes: Overtraining syndrome, severe caloric deficit (contest prep), chronic psychological stress, high-dose corticosteroids.
Supplements:
- Zinc -- 30mg/day (critical for T-cell development)
- Vitamin D3 -- 5000 IU/day (immune modulation)
- Glutamine -- 5-10g/day (immune cell fuel, especially during caloric deficit)
- Probiotics -- 10-20 billion CFU/day
Lifestyle:
- Reduce training volume -- overtraining is the most common cause in athletes
- Increase caloric intake if in severe deficit
- Improve sleep quality and duration (7-9h)
- If persistent, rule out viral infection (HIV, hepatitis) or autoimmune conditions
History Chart
Reading History
Frequently Asked Questions
Reference Ranges
Standard Range
1 - 4 x10^9/L