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Neutrophil Count (Absolute Neutrophil Count, ANC)

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

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

Quick summary

["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; low or high counts may signal health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26520-7
Short code
Granulocytes NFr Prt
Synonyms
Granulocytes NFr Prt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86592
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

Doctors may order an ANC test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders. 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. The test is typically done by drawing blood from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know.

What the Results Mean

Results are usually reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, very low counts may indicate infections, immune disorders, or bone marrow issues. Very high counts could signal infections, inflammation, or other conditions.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophils

Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) may occur with certain medications, chemotherapy, or blood disorders like leukemia. High neutrophil counts (neutrophilia) can result from infections, stress, or certain cancers.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ANC

Frequently asked questions

What causes a low neutrophil count?
Low neutrophil counts can be caused by infections, certain medications (like chemotherapy), autoimmune diseases, or conditions affecting bone marrow production of blood cells.
What causes a high neutrophil count?
High neutrophil counts often appear during infections (especially bacterial), stress, or inflammatory conditions. Rarely, they may signal cancers like leukemia.
How often is this test repeated?
The frequency depends on your condition. If you’re undergoing treatment (e.g., chemotherapy), your doctor may order ANC tests regularly to monitor your blood cell counts.
  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