Neutrophil count (absolute neutrophil count, ANC) from whole blood
This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections by attacking bacteria and other invaders.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; low or high levels may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26519-9
- Short code
- Granulocytes NFr Plr
- Synonyms
- Granulocytes NFr Plr
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Neutrophils Do in Your Body
Neutrophils are a critical part of your immune system. They quickly respond to infections, especially bacterial ones, by moving through blood vessels to the site of infection and destroying pathogens. This test helps doctors assess your body’s ability to fight infections effectively.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may order an ANC test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, fever, or signs of inflammation. It’s also used before chemotherapy or other treatments that can lower white blood cell counts.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. A simple blood draw is performed, usually from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (cells/mcL) of blood. While exact ranges vary by lab, very low counts may indicate immune suppression, while very high counts could signal infection or other conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can increase your risk of serious infections, especially if you’re undergoing treatments that suppress your immune system. High neutrophil counts may suggest active infection, inflammation, or other underlying conditions like autoimmune diseases.
Short name
ANC
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor want to check my neutrophil count?
What are typical reference ranges for neutrophils?
Can diet or lifestyle affect neutrophil counts?
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