Clinical Pathology

CSF Lymphocytes

Normal Range
60% - 90% of total CSF WBCs
Sample Type
Standard
Fasting
No
Unit
%

This test measures the percentage of lymphocytes within the Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF). In a CSF Differential Count, a predominance of lymphocytes (lymphocytic pleocytosis) is a hallmark of certain types of meningitis. While neutrophils dominate in bacterial meningitis, lymphocytes typically dominate in viral, fungal, or tuberculous meningitis, as well as in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Check Your Result

Check Your Result

Interactive
%

Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.

Why Context Matters

The presence of red blood cells in the CSF (due to a 'traumatic tap' during the lumbar puncture procedure) can introduce white blood cells from the peripheral blood into the sample, artificially inflating the lymphocyte count and leading to a false diagnosis of neuroinflammation.

Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.

Clinical References

Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for CSF Lymphocytes:

Research & Guidelines

Related Indicators

CSF Differential Count

View Range

Fluid For Cell Count / Celltype

View Range

Eosinophils

View Range
DR

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS

Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience

Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.

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