Total White Blood Cell Count with Differential (Serum/Plasma Electrophoresis)
This test measures the types and proportions of white blood cells in your blood, often used to assess immune function or identify infections, inflammation, or blood disorders.
["Understanding your white blood cell types helps doctors diagnose and guide treatment for conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or blood cancers."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87543-5
- Short code
- Hex A & Total w Rflx HEXA Pnl WBC-cCnt
- Synonyms
- Hex A & Total w Rflx HEXA Pnl WBC-cCnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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
What Does a White Blood Cell Differential Tell Us?
A differential count breaks down the total white blood cell count into specific cell types, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Each cell type plays a unique role in your immune response. For example, high neutrophils may signal bacterial infection, while high lymphocytes could indicate a viral infection or immune activation.
How Is This Test Performed?
Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using an automated machine that separates and counts the different white blood cell types. This process is quick and painless.
When Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order a white blood cell differential when you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, swelling, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to monitor chronic conditions such as leukemia, lupus, or other immune-related disorders.
Common Conditions Affecting White Blood Cells
Abnormalities in the differential can signal infections (e.g., bacterial vs. viral), inflammatory diseases, or blood disorders. For instance, a low lymphocyte count might raise concerns about HIV or other immune deficiencies.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A white blood cell differential is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the immune system. It helps identify the cause of symptoms, track disease progression, and determine the best treatment plan. For example, elevated eosinophils may indicate allergies or parasitic infections, while a shift to immature cells (bands) can signal severe infections or sepsis.
Short name
WBC Differential Profile
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor request this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect white blood cell 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