What is a normal lymphocyte count?

A normal lymphocyte count typically ranges from 1,000 to 4,800 lymphocytes per microliter of blood for an adult. In children, the count ranges from 3,000 to 9,500 lymphocytes per micro liter. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, counts less than1,000 lymphocytes in an adult is called lymphocytopenia.

Lymphocytes help the body fight off infection. When the numbers are too low, the chance of getting an infection or other illnesses raises. Lymphocytes are white blood cells that are made in the body's bone marrow. In some people, the body cannot make enough lymphocytes, they are destroyed, or they cannot pass into the blood through the lymph nodes or spleen, notes the Department of Health and Human Services.