Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Lymphopenia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low level of lymphocytes in the blood. It can result from various factors, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or immunodeficiency disorders.
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Lymphopenia can lead to increased susceptibility to infections due to a weakened immune response.
Common causes of lymphopenia include HIV infection, chemotherapy, and certain genetic disorders.
Diagnosis of lymphopenia is typically made through a complete blood count (CBC) test showing low lymphocyte levels.
Management of lymphopenia often involves treating the underlying cause and may include immunoglobulin therapy or bone marrow transplant in severe cases.
Lymphopenia is different from other forms of leukopenia, which involve decreases in other types of white blood cells.
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Related terms
Leukopenia: A reduction in the number of white blood cells overall, not just lymphocytes.
Immunodeficiency: A state where the immune system's ability to fight infectious disease and cancer is compromised or entirely absent.
Autoimmune Disease: A condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells and tissues.