Serum Gram Stain Qualitative (for Neutrophil Count)
This test checks the presence of certain white blood cells called neutrophils in your serum, which are important for fighting infections. It helps doctors assess immune response or inflammation.
["This test helps evaluate your body’s ability to fight infections by measuring neutrophil presence in serum samples."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88158-1
- Short code
- Gram Stn Ocflu
- Synonyms
- Gram Stn Ocflu
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- gram-stain
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
A Gram stain is a basic microbiology technique used to identify the type of bacteria present in your sample. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play a key role in the body’s immune response to infections. This test specifically looks at the concentration of neutrophils in your serum, which can be useful in diagnosing or monitoring certain conditions.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect an infection, inflammation, or an immune-related condition. It can also be part of a broader evaluation when symptoms like fever, swelling, or unexplained fatigue are present.
Sample Collection and Preparation
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum (the liquid part after blood clots) and sent for Gram staining. The test focuses on identifying and counting neutrophils in this serum.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are no special preparations needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort from the needle, but it should go away quickly. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated neutrophil counts in serum may indicate an active infection, inflammation, or autoimmune response. Low neutrophil counts could suggest immune deficiencies or other underlying health issues. This test is often used alongside other diagnostic tools to guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Gram Stain Neutrophil Count (qual)
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have an infection?
What does a high or low neutrophil count mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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