Why is my 1-year-old's lymphocyte count high?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 1-year-old daughter has a WBC count of 20.3, absolute lymphocyte 10.8, and neutrophil 28. We have been asked to consult a hematologist. We are worried as in what type of issue is she having. She does not have a fever, is acting well and eating well.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

In children, there is usually a presence of high lymphocytes. But in your child, absolute lymphocytosis is present. Hence, your child should be referred to a hematologist for examination, especially, lymph nodes palpation, liver, and spleen palpation. (If needed, a USG scan can be done for that). Tuberculosis, measles, chickenpox, hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis, brucellosis, etc., are some of the infective causes but specific symptoms regarding that are not present as per history. Autoimmune disorder and leukemia also are some of the causes. These are different causes to provide you information regarding the cause of lymphocytosis.

Your latest smear report shows high atypical lymphocytes (attachment removed to protect patient identity); mostly it can be some form of viral infection. But we do not want to take the risk and consult a hematologist for examination and investigate with a USG abdomen scan also. If needed, then flow cytometry like higher investigation can be planned. Hope this provided information will be beneficial to you while you consult a nearby hematologist for examination. Take care.