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Monocyte Blood Count (Absolute)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the number of monocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps your body fight infections and respond to inflammation.

Quick summary

["Monocytes help protect your immune system and may signal inflammation or infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74399-7
Short code
Monocytes # BldCo
Synonyms
Monocytes # BldCo
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 order this test to check for infections, autoimmune diseases, or conditions affecting your immune system, such as leukemia or certain inflammatory disorders. It can also help evaluate responses to treatments or monitor chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw a blood sample. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—they can offer ways to make it more comfortable.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are usually reported as the absolute count of monocytes per microliter (µL) of blood. Abnormally high or low levels may indicate health concerns, but your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Common Conditions Monitored

High monocyte counts may signal chronic infections, inflammation, or certain cancers. Low counts could suggest immune deficiencies, blood disorders, or side effects from treatments like chemotherapy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Monocyte levels alone don’t diagnose a condition—they’re part of a broader picture. Your provider will compare results with your symptoms, medical history, and other tests (like blood cultures or imaging) to guide next steps, such as further testing or treatment adjustments.

Short name

Monocyte Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated monocyte counts?
Elevated monocytes can occur with chronic infections (e.g., tuberculosis), inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or certain cancers (e.g., leukemia). Stress, pregnancy, or certain medications may also temporarily raise levels.
What causes low monocyte counts?
Low monocyte counts may result from immune disorders, blood disorders (e.g., aplastic anemia), or treatments that suppress the bone marrow (e.g., chemotherapy). Rarely, it could indicate severe infections or genetic conditions.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Your provider may order it periodically if you have a chronic condition, during follow-ups, or if symptoms change. Ask your provider for a personalized schedule.
  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