1. What is Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC)?

The Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC) is a measurement of the total number of lymphocytes in the blood, calculated by multiplying the total white blood cell count by the percentage of lymphocytes. It provides important information about immune system function.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ALC formula:

Where:

• Total Leukocytes — White blood cell count (cells/μL)
• Lymphocyte Fraction — Proportion of lymphocytes (decimal between 0-1)

Explanation: The equation converts the relative lymphocyte percentage to an absolute count, which is more clinically meaningful.

3. Importance of ALC Calculation

Details: ALC is crucial for assessing immune status, monitoring conditions like HIV/AIDS, evaluating chemotherapy effects, and diagnosing lymphopenia or lymphocytosis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total leukocyte count in cells/μL and lymphocyte fraction as a decimal (e.g., 0.25 for 25%). Both values must be valid (leukocytes > 0, fraction between 0-1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal ALC range?
A: Normal range is typically 1,000-4,800 cells/μL in adults, though this varies by age and laboratory standards.

Q2: When is ALC testing performed?
A: ALC is often part of complete blood count (CBC) with differential, ordered for immune evaluation, infection workup, or cancer monitoring.

Q3: What causes low ALC (lymphopenia)?
A: Causes include viral infections, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy, radiation, malnutrition, and certain medications.

Q4: What causes high ALC (lymphocytosis)?
A: Causes include acute viral infections, chronic inflammatory conditions, leukemia, and stress responses.

Q5: How often should ALC be monitored?
A: Frequency depends on clinical context - weekly during chemotherapy, periodically in HIV management, or as needed for other conditions.