The variation in the number of LinkedIn profiles retrieved can result from several factors:

1. Data Changes: LinkedIn’s database may update frequently, causing discrepancies in available profiles.
2. Profile Availability: Some profiles might no longer be accessible at the time of export, leading to a lower count.
3. Filter Criteria: If your specific filters do not match certain leads, the results may be fewer than anticipated.

These factors can all contribute to the differences you observe in the number of profiles retrieved.