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Granulocyte count (absolute)

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

["Granulocyte count helps doctors assess immune function and detect infections or inflammatory conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
32177-8
Short code
Granulocytes NFr Vag
Synonyms
Granulocytes NFr Vag
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Your doctor may order this test to evaluate your immune system, check for infections (such as bacterial or fungal), or monitor conditions like chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. It can also help diagnose or monitor blood disorders like leukemia or neutropenia.

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 thinners, let your doctor know before the procedure.

How the Test Results Are Interpreted

Results are usually reported as a count of granulocytes per microliter of blood. Abnormal levels may indicate infections, immune disorders, or other health concerns. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

Granulocyte counts are often checked in people with suspected infections, those undergoing chemotherapy (which can lower white blood cell counts), or individuals with chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Granulocyte Absolute Count (GAC)

Frequently asked questions

What causes granulocyte counts to be low?
Low granulocyte counts can result from infections, certain medications (like chemotherapy drugs), autoimmune diseases, or genetic disorders. Chronic stress, poor nutrition, or liver/kidney disease may also play a role.
What does a high granulocyte count usually mean?
A high granulocyte count often signals an active infection, inflammation, or a response to an immune challenge. It can also occur in conditions like acute infections, severe stress, or certain cancers.
Can diet affect granulocyte counts?
Dietary factors like vitamin deficiencies (e.g., B12, folate) or excessive alcohol intake may indirectly impact white blood cell function, but diet alone rarely causes significant changes in granulocyte counts. Focus on balanced nutrition for overall immune 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