Causes of an increase in T lymphocytes | T lymphocytes

Causes of an increase in T lymphocytes

Causes for an increased T-lymphocyte count can be various diseases. If an infection occurs, the lymphocytes multiply via the aforementioned mechanisms and, as a consequence, enter the bloodstream in increased numbers. The proportion of T lymphocytes can then be determined by blood laboratory tests.

The standard value of lymphocytes is between 700 and 2600 lymphocytes per microliter and thus has a white blood cell content of between 17% and 49%. On the basis of the blood laboratory measurements, conclusions can then be drawn as to whether a bacterial or viral infection is present and to what extent T-lymphocyte formation and release takes place properly. Daily rhythmic fluctuations are quite natural.For example, the number of lymphocytes is usually slightly increased at lunchtime and in the evening, while the lowest value is found in the morning.

The T-lymphocyte count can be increased by viral infections (e.g. rubella, mononucleosis), certain bacterial infections (e.g. whooping cough, tuberculosis, thyphus), fungal infections (e.g. pneumocystis, candida) and various types of cancer (e.g. leukemia, lymphoma). In addition, an increased lymphocyte count can be an indication of hyperthyroidism.

Causes of a decrease in T-lymphocytes

Causes for a decreased number of T-lymphocytes are often diseases or malfunctions of the immune system. These can be either acquired or congenital. Genetically inherited diseases can weaken the immune system and thus the formation of T-lymphocytes.

However, the weakness of the immune system and thus the reduced formation of T-lymphocytes can also be caused by acquired infectious diseases (e.g. measles) or cancer. These can specifically attack and destroy the lymphocytes. These include AIDS or tuberculosis, for example.

In addition, the medication of immunosuppressive drugs (e.g. glucocorticoids), cortisol, cytostatic drugs and steroids can also lead to a reduction in the patient’s chances of survival. Other causes are also chronic liver diseases (e.g. liver cirrhosis, hepatitis C), burns, autoimmune diseases, renal failure & iron deficiency anemia. Leukemia is a particular cause of a reduced T-lymphocyte count.

This initially causes an increase in the number of T-lymphocytes when the disease occurs. This is dangerous for the organism, since the high number of lymphocytes may now also attack the body’s own healthy cells. In the treatment of leukemia with chemotherapy and radiation, attempts are made to reduce the number, which can easily lead to the lymphocyte count falling below the normal value.