QuestionDuring a recent blood test as part of a routine physical, it was indicated that I have high neutrophils and low lymphocytes. At the time I didn't have any infections. My doctor didn't make any mention of it, I only discovered this after I obtained the lab results and read them over at home. I am going back in to talk with him about it soon.
However, could you tell me some of the possible conditions this could point to? What exactly are neutrophils and lymphocytes? I am an 18 year old woman and healthy, exercise rountinely and eat well. The only other medical abnormality is that I have excessive protein in my urine.
Thank you.
AnswerNeutrophils are white blood cells that usually respond to acute infection or inflammation. They would be high (total number, as well as percentage) in an infection or inflammation (e.g. gout, rheumatoid arthritis). They can also increase with certain medications.
Lymphocytes are white blood cells that are more involved in chronic infections and antibody productions. They can also be elevated in certain viral infections.
With no overt symptoms and the total number of both types of cells normal, there is not much to do about it, perhaps except repeat the test.
