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Granulocyte Count (Absolute)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the number of granulocytes (a type of white blood cell) in your blood, which helps assess immune function and detect infections or inflammatory conditions.

Quick summary

["Granulocytes are key defenders against bacteria and fungi; low or high counts may signal health concerns."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14379-2
Short code
Granulocytes NFr Gast Manual
Synonyms
Granulocytes NFr Gast Manual
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
manual-count
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 Is a Granulocyte Count Used For?

Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections (e.g., bacterial infections), autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or blood disorders (e.g., leukemia). It can also guide treatment decisions for conditions affecting white blood cells.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is analyzed to count granulocytes using automated blood testing technology.

What Might Abnormal Results Indicate?

Low granulocyte counts (neutropenia) may suggest immune suppression, infections, or certain medications. High granulocyte counts (neutrophilia) could indicate inflammation, stress, or infections.

When Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unexplained fevers, or signs of inflammation. It’s also part of routine blood checks for certain conditions.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Granulocyte counts are critical for diagnosing and managing immune-related disorders. While absolute counts help identify imbalances, they’re often interpreted alongside other blood tests and clinical symptoms to determine the underlying cause.

Short name

Granulocyte Count

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need this test if I don’t have symptoms?
Your doctor may order it as part of a general health check, to monitor a chronic condition, or before starting treatments that could affect your immune system.
What do my results mean if they’re outside the normal range?
Results outside the normal range don’t provide a diagnosis alone. Your doctor will review them with your full medical history and other test results to determine next steps.
Can I affect my granulocyte count before the test?
Avoid strenuous exercise, infections, or medications that may influence white blood cells for a few days before testing. Follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy