Skip to content

Granulocyte Absolute Count (Blood Cell Differential)

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

This test measures the number of granulocytes, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Granulocytes help fight infections and inflammation.

Quick summary

["Granulocytes are key defenders against bacteria and fungi, and their count helps assess immune function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
70067-4
Short code
Granulocytes NFr Plr Auto
Synonyms
Granulocytes NFr Plr Auto
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
automated-count
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order a granulocyte count to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders. It can also help track responses to treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand for a blood draw, similar to a routine blood test. The process takes a few minutes.

What the Results Mean

Results show the absolute number of granulocytes per microliter of blood. Low counts may indicate immune suppression, while high counts could signal infection or inflammation.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Changes in granulocyte levels can occur with infections (e.g., bacterial or fungal), certain medications, or underlying conditions like leukemia or chronic inflammation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A low granulocyte count may raise concerns about infection risk, especially in vulnerable populations like cancer patients or those on chemotherapy. High counts could suggest overactive immune responses or infections.

Short name

Granulocyte Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes granulocyte counts to be low?
Low granulocyte counts can result from infections, certain medications (e.g., chemotherapy drugs), autoimmune diseases, or conditions that impair bone marrow function.
What causes granulocyte counts to be high?
High granulocyte counts often appear during infections, inflammatory processes, or stress responses. Rarely, they may signal conditions like chronic granulomatous disease.
Is this test painful?
The blood draw itself is minor discomfort, but most people tolerate it well. The needle is quick, and any soreness fades shortly afterward.
  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