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Absolute Neutrophil Count (from Bronchial Lavage Fluid)

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

This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in fluid collected from your airways (bronchial lavage). Neutrophils help fight infections.

Quick summary

["This helps doctors assess airway inflammation or infection risk after procedures like bronchoscopy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30396-6
Short code
Granulocytes NFr Bronch
Synonyms
Granulocytes NFr Bronch
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you’ve had a procedure to examine your airways (bronchoscopy) and suspect inflammation, infection, or other lung issues. It can also help evaluate conditions like pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, or lung cancer treatment effects.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely receive a local anesthetic to numb your throat, and the fluid sample is collected during a bronchoscopy under sedation or mild anesthesia. Recovery is usually quick.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected neutrophil counts may indicate infection, inflammation, or other lung problems. Lower counts could suggest immune suppression or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose

This test supports diagnosing conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, lung infections, or assessing responses to treatments for lung diseases (e.g., cancer, COPD). It may also help monitor immune function or reactions to medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Absolute Neutrophil Count (bronch)

Frequently asked questions

What does an abnormal neutrophil count in bronchial fluid mean?
An abnormal count could mean you have an active infection (like pneumonia), inflammation (e.g., from asthma or bronchitis), or other lung conditions. Your doctor will review the full picture, including symptoms and other test results, to determine the cause.
Does this test require fasting?
No, fasting is not required for this test. The sample is collected during a bronchoscopy procedure, so timing around meals has no impact on the test results.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 24–48 hours after the lab processes the sample, depending on your healthcare provider’s workflow. Your doctor will discuss them with you during a follow-up visit.
  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