Granulocyte Count (Absolute)

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order this test to evaluate your immune system, diagnose infections (such as bacterial or fungal), or monitor conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or certain types of chemotherapy side effects. It can also help determine if you’re at risk for infections after surgery or during treatments that weaken your immune response.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw a blood sample. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are typically reported as the absolute number of granulocytes per microliter (µL) of blood. Low counts may indicate infection, immune disorders, or certain medications. High counts could suggest infection, inflammation, or other conditions like chronic granulomatous disease.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Conditions that might affect granulocyte counts include chronic infections, autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis), certain cancers (e.g., leukemia), or treatments that suppress the immune system (e.g., chemotherapy).