Neutrophil count (absolute)
This test measures the number of neutrophils in your blood, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; low or high levels may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73003-6
- Short code
- levoFLOXacin (neut) IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- levoFLOXacin (neut) IgM 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
What Neutrophils Do in Your Body
Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in your immune response. They help your body fight off bacteria and other harmful invaders. When you have an infection, your body often produces more neutrophils to help clear the infection. This test helps doctors understand how well your immune system is responding to infections.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or persistent cough, especially if you suspect a bacterial infection. It may also be used to monitor conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or after treatments that affect your immune system.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm or hand to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch or discomfort.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter of blood. Low neutrophil counts may indicate an increased risk of infections, while very high counts could suggest inflammation or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can make you more susceptible to infections, especially bacterial ones. This can occur due to certain medications, genetic conditions, or diseases like leukemia or autoimmune disorders. High neutrophil counts may signal acute infections, inflammation, or other underlying health issues. Monitoring these levels helps doctors manage conditions like chronic infections or immune deficiencies.
Short name
Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor want to check my neutrophil count?
What do my neutrophil results mean for my health?
Can I do anything to affect my neutrophil count?
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