Elevated Body Temperature and Lymphocyte Levels in Family Medicine

Elevated body temperature and elevated lymphocyte count?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I found two small lumps in my neck, approximately 0.5 cm in size, with a smooth surface, slightly firm, and movable, which are not painful.
I initially thought they were swollen lymph nodes, so I went to a clinic for examination.
The doctor felt them and suggested they did not seem like lymph nodes, but rather could be fibromas or muscle tissue.
He recommended a blood test, and the report showed that my lymphocyte count was 40.9%, which is slightly elevated, while everything else was normal.
On the day of the consultation, my temperature was 37.3°C, and two days later, when I picked up the report, it was 37.7°C.
I rarely check my temperature, but occasionally it has been in the 37s, while at other times it has been in the 36s, so I am unsure if I have a naturally higher body temperature.
Last year, when I had an infection and inflammation after having my wisdom teeth removed, my temperature only reached about 37.8°C.
Since I did not have any cold symptoms or other abnormalities while seeing the doctor, I am not certain if I have a fever.
I would like to ask if muscles can form small lumps like the ones in my neck due to poor posture? The doctor who examined me thought they might be muscle, but I feel that muscles shouldn't be that small.
Additionally, should I be concerned about the elevated lymphocyte count in the report, and do I need further examination? Thank you, doctor.

Jia Jia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/06

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, based on your description, it is recommended to seek assistance from specialists in infectious diseases and hematology for evaluation at Changhua Hospital.
We care about you.

Reply Date: 2016/10/06

More Info

Elevated body temperature and changes in lymphocyte levels can be concerning, especially when accompanied by physical findings such as palpable masses in the neck. Based on your description, it seems you have encountered a few different issues that merit discussion.

Firstly, regarding your body temperature, a normal body temperature typically ranges from about 36.1°C to 37.2°C (97°F to 99°F). A temperature of 37.3°C (99.1°F) is slightly elevated but not necessarily indicative of a fever, which is generally defined as a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher. Your observation of fluctuating temperatures, with some readings in the 36°C range and others in the 37°C range, suggests that your body is functioning within a normal physiological range, albeit on the higher end. Factors such as time of day, physical activity, and even emotional stress can influence body temperature readings.

Now, concerning the two small, movable, and non-painful masses you felt in your neck, these could indeed be lymph nodes, but as your doctor suggested, they might also be benign structures such as fibromas or muscle tissue. Muscle tension or spasms can sometimes create palpable nodules, especially if there is poor posture or repetitive strain. However, it is less common for muscle tissue to form discrete lumps that are easily felt unless there is significant tension or injury.
The elevated lymphocyte percentage in your blood test (40.9%) indicates a mild increase in lymphocytes, which can occur due to various reasons, including viral infections, stress, or chronic inflammation. While a slight elevation might not be alarming, it is essential to consider the context of your overall health and any symptoms you may have experienced. If you have no other symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or night sweats, this finding may not be significant. However, if you continue to feel concerned or if your symptoms change, follow-up testing or a referral to a specialist may be warranted.

In terms of further evaluation, it would be prudent to monitor your symptoms and body temperature over the next few weeks. If the lumps persist, grow, or become painful, or if you experience any new symptoms, it would be advisable to return to your healthcare provider for further assessment. They may consider imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to better characterize the masses and determine their nature.

In summary, while your body temperature and lymphocyte levels are slightly elevated, they do not immediately indicate a serious problem, especially in the absence of other concerning symptoms. However, ongoing monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider will be key in ensuring your health remains stable. If you have any further concerns or if your situation changes, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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