What does a Complete Blood Count (CBC) show in lymphoma?

From the Guidelines

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) in lymphoma typically shows abnormalities such as anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis or leukopenia, and neutropenia, which reflect the impact of cancer on blood cell production. These abnormalities can result from direct bone marrow infiltration by lymphoma cells or the immune system's response to the cancer 1. The CBC may reveal a low red blood cell count or hemoglobin, indicating anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness in patients. Additionally, thrombocytopenia, or a low platelet count, may be present, increasing the risk of bleeding. Leukocytosis, or an elevated white blood cell count, can occur, particularly with increased lymphocytes in certain lymphoma types, though some patients may instead show leukopenia, or decreased white blood cells. Neutropenia, or a low neutrophil count, may also be present, increasing the susceptibility to infections.

• Key findings in a CBC for lymphoma patients may include:
  • Anemia (low red blood cell count or hemoglobin)
  • Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
  • Leukocytosis (elevated white blood cell count) or leukopenia (decreased white blood cells)
  • Neutropenia (low neutrophil count)
  • Abnormal lymphocyte morphology or immature cells in circulation While these findings suggest lymphoma, they are not diagnostic on their own, and additional testing like lymph node biopsy is required for a definitive diagnosis, as stated in the guidelines for non-Hodgkin's lymphomas 1. CBC monitoring is also essential during lymphoma treatment to assess response and detect treatment-related toxicities.

From the Research

Complete Blood Count (CBC) in Lymphoma

• A CBC is a blood test that measures various components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
• In lymphoma, a CBC can show abnormalities such as:
  • Anemia (low red blood cell count) 2, 3
  • Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) 4
  • Neutropenia (low white blood cell count) 5
  • Lymphocytosis (high white blood cell count)

Abnormalities in CBC

• Anemia is a common finding in lymphoma patients, and it can be a useful biomarker for predicting treatment outcomes 2.
• Thrombocytopenia is also a poor prognostic factor in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) 4.
• Neutropenia can occur as a result of chemotherapy-induced bone marrow suppression 5.

Clinical Significance

• The presence of anemia, thrombocytopenia, or neutropenia can impact treatment decisions and outcomes in lymphoma patients 2, 4, 3.
• A CBC is an essential tool for monitoring blood counts during chemotherapy and adjusting treatment as needed 5, 6.