Skip to content

Granulocyte Count (Absolute)

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

This test measures the number of white blood cells called granulocytes in your blood, which include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. These cells help fight infections and inflammation.

Quick summary

["Granulocyte counts help assess immune function and identify infections or inflammatory conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
70039-3
Short code
Granulocytes NFr Prt Auto
Synonyms
Granulocytes NFr Prt Auto
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
automated-count
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 Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to check for infections (such as bacterial or fungal), autoimmune diseases, or conditions that affect white blood cell production, like leukemia or severe neutropenia. It can also help monitor treatment responses in certain illnesses.

When Might You Need This Test?

You might need this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unexplained fevers, swelling, or if you’re undergoing treatment for cancer, chemotherapy, or other immune-suppressing conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A simple blood draw from a vein in your arm is all that’s required. The process takes a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.

What the Results Mean

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

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Granulocytes Absolute Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes granulocyte counts to be low?
Low granulocyte counts can result from infections, certain medications (like chemotherapy), autoimmune diseases, or genetic disorders affecting white blood cell production. Your doctor will discuss possible causes based on your symptoms and medical history.
What does it mean if my granulocyte count is high?
High granulocyte counts often signal an active infection, inflammation, or a response to stress. They may also appear in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or certain cancers. Your doctor will review your overall health and test results to interpret this.
Can diet or lifestyle affect granulocyte counts?
While diet and lifestyle factors may influence overall immune health, they typically don’t directly alter granulocyte counts. However, maintaining a balanced diet and good hygiene can support immune function, which indirectly benefits blood cell health.
  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