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Neutrophil count (absolute, blood)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils protect your body from bacterial infections and inflammation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103203-6
Short code
CD65FC
Synonyms
CD65 NFr Bld/Mar FC
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA K2 or K3) anticoagulated blood collection tube for peripheral blood; sodium heparin (green-top) tube is preferred for bone marrow aspirate specimens. Sterile, leak-proof containers required for transport.
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
88184, 88185 (additional markers billed per unit)
SNOMED
269747007
Specimen volume
Peripheral blood: 3-5 mL whole blood (minimum 1 mL for pediatric samples); Bone marrow aspirate: 1-3 mL collected into heparinized tube
Stability
Specimens should be processed within 24-48 hours of collection when stored at room temperature (18-25°C). Refrigerated storage (2-8°C) may extend viability up to 72 hours but may affect antigen expression. Bone marrow specimens should ideally be processed within 24 hours.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–72 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order this test to check if you have an infection, an immune disorder, or a condition that affects your white blood cells. It can also help monitor treatments for blood disorders or cancers.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults. Low counts may indicate infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. High counts could signal infections, inflammation, or other conditions.

Common Conditions Monitored

Doctors use ANC to diagnose or track conditions like leukemia, severe infections, or immune deficiencies. It’s also useful in chemotherapy monitoring to prevent infections.

Reference range

CD65+ cells are expressed primarily on granulocytes and a subset of monocytes. In normal peripheral blood, CD65-positive granulocytes typically represent >95% of the granulocyte population. Reference values are reported as percentage of gated cells or absolute count (cells/µL); results should be interpreted in conjunction with the complete leukocyte differential and clinical context. Abnormal CD65 expression patterns may indicate myeloid lineage neoplasms or aberrant antigen expression.N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special patient preparation is required. Recent chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or bone marrow recovery states may affect results. Specimen collection should occur before initiating cytotoxic therapy when possible to avoid therapy-induced alterations in immunophenotype.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Neutrophils are critical for fighting bacterial infections. Abnormally low counts (neutropenia) increase infection risk, while high counts may signal active infection or inflammation. Regular monitoring helps manage chronic conditions or treatments that suppress white blood cells.

Short name

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)

Frequently asked questions

What causes low neutrophil counts?
Low neutrophil counts can result from infections, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or genetic disorders. Chronic conditions like leukemia or kidney disease may also affect neutrophil production.
What happens if my ANC is low?
If your ANC is low, your doctor may recommend avoiding infections, monitor for signs of illness, or adjust medications to prevent severe infections. In some cases, treatments like growth factors may be needed.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health. If you have a chronic condition, your doctor may order ANC tests regularly. If you’re undergoing treatment (e.g., chemotherapy), tests may be done more often to track changes.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy