Neutrophil count (serum/plasma-based quantitative measurement of neutrophil leukocytes)
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 invaders.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; abnormal counts may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73004-4
- Short code
- levoFLOXacin (neut) IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- levoFLOXacin (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 This Test Is Done
Doctors may order a neutrophil count test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as infections (especially bacterial), certain blood disorders, or immune system issues. It can also help assess how your body responds to treatments like chemotherapy or steroids.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are usually reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. High neutrophil counts (elevated) may indicate infection, inflammation, or other conditions. Low counts (reduced) could signal immune suppression, bone marrow disorders, or certain medications.
Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Levels
Elevated neutrophil counts are often seen in bacterial infections, chronic inflammation, or stress. Reduced counts may occur with autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, or after treatments like chemotherapy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Neutrophils are the body’s first responders to bacterial infections. High levels may signal active infection or overactive immune response, while low levels can indicate weakened immunity or bone marrow dysfunction. Monitoring these cells helps guide treatment decisions for infections, autoimmune disorders, or cancer.
Frequently asked questions
What causes a high neutrophil count?
What causes a low neutrophil count?
How often should I get this test?
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