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Neutrophil Count (Absolute Neutrophil Count, ANC) from Whole Blood

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.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38518-7
Short code
Imm Granulocytes NFr Bld
Synonyms
Imm Granulocytes NFr Bld
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may check your neutrophil count if you have symptoms like frequent infections, fever, fatigue, or if you’re recovering from surgery or a serious illness. It can also help monitor conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or certain infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw a small amount of blood. The process usually takes a few minutes.

What the Results Mean

Results are expressed as the number of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, very low counts (below normal) may indicate immune suppression, while very high counts (above normal) could signal infection or inflammation.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Counts

Low neutrophil counts may be linked to conditions like aplastic anemia, chemotherapy side effects, or severe infections. High neutrophil counts can occur with bacterial infections, stress, or certain inflammatory diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Neutrophils are the body’s primary responders to bacterial infections. Abnormal counts can signal immune dysfunction, chronic illness, or underlying health risks that require further evaluation.

Short name

ANC

Frequently asked questions

What causes a low neutrophil count?
Low neutrophil counts can result from bone marrow disorders, certain medications (like chemotherapy), autoimmune diseases, or severe infections that deplete white blood cells.
What should I do if my neutrophil count is low?
If your healthcare provider notes a low neutrophil count, they may recommend additional tests or adjustments to your treatment plan, such as avoiding medications that suppress the bone marrow or managing infections more carefully.
Can diet affect neutrophil counts?
Diet alone rarely affects neutrophil counts, but maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins (like B12 and folate) and minerals (iron) can support overall immune function, including white blood cell production.
  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