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Neutrophil count (absolute) in serum/plasma

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 your body from bacteria and infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73002-8
Short code
Lisinopril (neut) IgG SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
Lisinopril (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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for infections, inflammation, or other conditions that affect your immune system. It could also be used to monitor certain treatments or medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or infections like sepsis.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. High levels may indicate infection, inflammation, or other health issues, while very low levels could suggest immune disorders or certain medications.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions like bacterial infections, acute inflammation, leukemia, or other blood disorders. It’s also used in assessing response to treatments for infections or autoimmune diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Neutrophils play a critical role in fighting bacterial infections. Elevated counts often signal active infection or inflammation, while low counts may indicate immune suppression or certain blood disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.

Short name

Neutrophil level

Frequently asked questions

What causes neutrophil levels to be higher than usual?
Higher neutrophil levels can occur due to infections (like bacterial infections), severe inflammation, stress, or certain medications. Chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease may also be associated with elevated neutrophils.
What causes neutrophil levels to be lower than usual?
Lower neutrophil counts may result from immune disorders (like leukemia or aplastic anemia), certain medications (e.g., chemotherapy), severe infections, or conditions that weaken the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells.
Can diet or lifestyle affect neutrophil counts?
While diet and lifestyle factors like stress or poor sleep may influence immune function indirectly, they rarely directly alter neutrophil counts. Focus on maintaining overall health and following your provider’s advice for managing any related conditions.
  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