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Neutrophil count (absolute)

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 protect against bacterial infections and signal inflammation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73012-7
Short code
HTCZ (neut) IgG SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
HTCZ (neut) IgG SerPl Ql FC
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
82784
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 Might This Test Be Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for infections, monitor immune function, or evaluate conditions like chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. Low counts may indicate immune suppression, while high counts could signal infection or overactive immune response.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. This is quick and typically painless, though some people feel slight discomfort.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a standard range for healthy adults. Very low counts may raise concerns about infections or immune disorders, while very high counts may suggest active infection or other conditions.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Counts

Neutrophil counts can drop in conditions like leukemia, HIV/AIDS, or certain medications (e.g., chemotherapy). They may rise with bacterial infections, stress, or inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Neutrophils are the body’s first responders to bacterial infections. Low ANC increases infection risk, while elevated ANC may indicate infection or inflammation. Monitoring is critical for patients with weakened immune systems.

Short name

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)

Frequently asked questions

What causes a low neutrophil count?
Low neutrophil counts can result from infections, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or conditions like aplastic anemia. Chronic stress or malnutrition may also contribute.
What causes a high neutrophil count?
High neutrophil counts often signal bacterial infections, severe inflammation, or stress. Rarely, they may appear in conditions like acute leukemia or certain cancers.
How often is this test repeated?
Your provider will determine frequency based on your condition. Tests may be repeated weekly, monthly, or as needed to monitor changes in your immune status.
  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