Diagnostic finding

Atypical lymphocytes

Enlarged, morphologically reactive lymphocytes with irregular nuclear contours and increased basophilic cytoplasm, usually representing antigen-stimulated cells.

Causes

  • Viral infections: EBV, CMV, viral hepatitis, HIV, influenza, rubella, COVID-19

  • Bacterial/parasitic infections: Toxoplasmosis, Pertussis, Syphilis

  • Drug reactions: Phenytoin, antibiotics

  • Immune disorders: SLE, rheumatoid arthritis

  • Stress (major trauma)

  • Malignancy: Leukemia or lymphoma

Also known as: Reactive lymphocytes, Variant lymphocytes

Referencing diagnoses

Note: Lists existing diagnoses in Diagnotize only.