What could be the cause of high monocyte and low lymphocyte count?
High monocyte count (monocytosis)
Inflammatory diseases: Monocytosis is often a sign of an inflammatory response in the body. Some conditions associated with monocytosis include:
* Infections: Bacterial infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and urinary tract infections; viral infections such as mononucleosis and hepatitis; and parasitic infections such as malaria
* Autoimmune diseases: Conditions in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
* Inflammatory bowel diseases: Conditions that cause inflammation in the intestines, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
* Other chronic inflammatory conditions: Such as sarcoidosis and vasculitis
Bone marrow disorders: Monocytes are produced in the bone marrow. Certain bone marrow disorders can lead to an increase in monocyte production.
Leukemia: Cancer of the white blood cells, including monocytic leukemia, which specifically affects monocytes.
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS): A group of disorders in which the bone marrow doesn't produce enough healthy blood cells.
Low lymphocyte count (lymphocytopenia)
Viral infections: Lymphocytopenia is commonly associated with viral infections, especially those that target lymphocytes, such as:
HIV/AIDS: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection can lead to a significant decrease in lymphocyte count, particularly CD4+ T cells.
Influenza: The flu virus can cause lymphocytopenia, especially in severe cases.
Measles: Measles infection can cause a transient decrease in lymphocyte count.
Immune system disorders: Lymphocytopenia can also occur in certain immune system disorders, including:
Primary immunodeficiency disorders: A group of inherited conditions that affect the development and function of the immune system.
Secondary immunodeficiency disorders: Acquired conditions that weaken the immune system, such as diabetes, malnutrition, and certain medications (immunosuppressive drugs, chemotherapy, etc.).
Splenomegaly: Enlargement of the spleen can lead to lymphocyte sequestration and a decrease in circulating lymphocyte count.
Nutritional deficiencies: Severe deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins B12 and C, folate, iron, and zinc, can affect lymphocyte production and lead to lymphocytopenia.
Other causes: Lymphocytopenia can also occur in certain genetic conditions, bone marrow disorders, and as a side effect of some medications and radiation therapy.