Neutrophil count in peripheral blood (absolute neutrophil count, ANC)
This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections by attacking bacteria and other harmful substances.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against infections; low or high counts may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69004-0
- Short code
- Imm Granulocytes NFr Fld
- Synonyms
- Imm Granulocytes NFr Fld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 86430
- 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
Doctors may order an absolute neutrophil count to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, certain cancers (e.g., leukemia), autoimmune diseases, or after treatments that weaken the immune system. It can also help assess how well your body is responding to treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. While specific ranges vary by lab, very low counts (below normal) may indicate risk of infections, while very high counts could signal inflammation or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Counts
Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can occur due to infections, chemotherapy, certain medications, or genetic disorders. High neutrophil counts (neutrophilia) may signal infections, stress, or inflammatory conditions 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 infections. Abnormal counts may signal immune dysfunction, cancer, or other systemic issues. Your doctor will use these results alongside other symptoms and tests to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Short name
Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)
Frequently asked questions
What causes a low neutrophil count?
What does a high neutrophil count usually mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect neutrophil 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