Hemocytometer, photo by
Todd
Blood counts can be used to identify disease and monitor patient health during cancer treatments. Though these tests cannot diagnose lymphoma on their own, they can alert doctors to a problem in the body, prompting them to conduct the appropriate tests. Since most chemotherapy regimens result in low blood counts, these tests become very important in monitoring patient health once a diagnosis is made.
Blood tests are used to measure and inspect the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A complete blood count (CBC) will test all three cell types. This test requires only a few drops of blood to conduct.
Almost all cell counting is done via machine, though hematology technicians (specialists in bloodwork) will look at the blood cells under a microscope as well to ensure there are no abnormalities in shape or size.
Call 1-877-399-5078 any time to discuss treatment options if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Lymphoma.
Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes, aka RBC)
RBC Count
Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. A depletion of red blood cells can lead to anemia, which results in fatigue, dizziness, or more serious symptoms if left untreated. Typical RBC levels are:
- 4.5 to 6.2 million cells per microliter of blood for men
- 4.2 to 5.4 million cells per microliter for women
- 2.6 to 4.8 million cells per microliter for children
Hematocrit
The amount of RBCs is also shown via the Hematocrit, which is a ratio of the number of RBCs to the volume of blood. Typical values are:
- 42%-52% in men
- 37%-47% in women
- 36%-40% in children
Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin is a molecule on a RBC that allows it to carry oxygen. Low hemoglobin counts can also result in anemia and fatigue. Typical levels are:
- 13-18 grams per deciliter in men
- 12-16 grams per deciliter in women
- 11 to 13 grams per deciliter in children
Pharmatech Oncology assists lymphoma patients in identifying clinical studies.
Follow this link to identify a conveniently located cancer treatment center and begin the process of enrollment.
White Blood Cells (Leukocytes, aka WBC)
WBC Count
White blood cells contain the immune cells that attack and remove bacteria and viruses in the body. Low WBC counts can indicate that a patient is in danger of infection. High WBC counts can indicate an existing infection, leukemia, or tissue damage. Typical levels are:
- 4,000 to 10,800 cells per microliter of blood.
There are many different types of WBCs, and their values differ. They are:
- Neutrophils (50%-60% of all WBCs)
- Eosinophils (1%-4% of all WBCs)
- Basophils (0.5%-2% of all WBCs)
- Lymphocytes (20%-40% of all WBCs)
- Monocytes (2%-9% of all WBCs)
- Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)
Neutrophils are the body’s first line of defense against infection and disease. These special cells help with inflammation as a result of bacteria or cuts in the skin, and they are responsible for pus. A low level of neutrophils (called neutropenia) leaves a patient susceptible to disease. Obesity and smoking increase neutrophil count - for each pack of cigarettes smoked per day the granulocyte count can increase by 1000/µL
An ANC reflects the number of cells in a microliter of blood. This level is usually above 1000 cells per microliter, though chemotherapy depletes this count.
Lymphocytes
B-cells and T-cells are lymphocytes. Depletion of these levels can also increase a patient’s risk of infection. Typical levels are:
- 1500 cells per microliter of blood for adults
- 3000 cells per microliter of blood for children
Platelet Count
Platelets are responsible for blood clotting. Typical levels are: 133,000 to 333,000 platelets per microliter of blood. If this level decreases to below 30,000 (called thrombocytopenia) then abnormal bleeding can occur. Counts below 5,000 are life threatening.
More Information
Call 1-877-399-5078 Anytime To Discuss Treatment Options
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Lymphoma, please call toll-free 1-877-399-5078 for treatment options.
Cancer Support Groups
SupportGroups.com is for individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
Find a Treatment Facility Near You
Click on a state below to find Lymphoma treatment options that could be right for you.
Dive Deeper
Online Resources
For more information on Hodgkin's Lymphoma, please see the following pages:
For more information on Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, please see the following pages:
