Final answer:
Atypical lymphocytes typically suggest viral infections, certain types of cancer like lymphoma, or immunosuppression. Physicians use a biopsy and immunohistochemistry to diagnose the specific type of lymphoma, which aids in determining the most effective treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Atypical lymphocytes typically indicate the body's response to various conditions such as viral infections, some types of cancer such as lymphoma, or indicate immunosuppression. High lymphocyte counts are characteristic of viral infections and certain cancers, while low counts may be a result of chronic illness or conditions that weaken the immune system, including HIV and certain drug therapies involving steroids. To diagnose lymphoma, physicians perform a biopsy to check for physical changes and identify cell-surface antigens using immunohistochemistry. Identifying these antigens can determine the cancerous cells and the specific subtype of lymphoma, which is crucial for tailored treatment approaches.