Are abnormal lymphocytes normal in blood smear results?

[ToshaMO1]

My son had a blood smear test done and the nurse told me it came back showing some abnormal lymphocytes in it.  She said that is normal, but I don't believe her.  Does anyone know?  The doctor won't be in until Monday to call me with the official results/recommendations.  He has been suffering from severe fatigue, weight loss and high iron counts. Thanks for your help!

[sfarnsworth]

A related discussion, atypical lymph test was started.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Thanks for writing to the forum!
Well, you are right. Normally abnormal lymphocytes are not present in the blood. However do not panic and wait for the doctor’s report. Also we do not know what the abnormality is. These could be reactive lymphocytes. You can read about this on : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reactive_lymphocyte
“Hypersegmented neutrophils are pathognomonic of megaloblastic anemia.” Refer: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypersegmented_neutrophils
Refer: http://jcp.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/extract/60/7/838
“An examination of a blood smear may be requested by physicians or initiated by laboratory staff as a diagnostic aid when a lymphoproliferative disorder or mononucleosis is suspected.1 The classification of lymphocyte disorders is complex because there are various manifestations of these disorders.2,3 Three major groups can be distinguished: reactive lymphocytosis, premalignant neoplastic disorders of lymphocytes and neoplastic disorders of lymphocytes.4 Lymphocyte disorders may be accompanied by abnormal lymphocyte morphology;”
Hope this helps. I think you should discuss this with your doctor and not panic without the doctor’s report. Please let me know if there is any thing else and do keep me posted. Take care!