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Monocyte 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 detect infections or injury."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
106914-5
Short code
Monocytes NFr BAL
Synonyms
Monocytes NFr BAL
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check for infections, immune disorders, or conditions affecting your blood cells. It can also help diagnose or monitor diseases like leukemia, lymphoma, or chronic inflammation.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults. Low or high levels may suggest underlying health issues, but exact interpretations depend on your symptoms and medical history.

Common Conditions Monitored

Monocyte counts are monitored in conditions like chronic infections, autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or blood disorders (e.g., myeloproliferative diseases).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Monocyte Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes a high monocyte count?
High monocyte counts can result from chronic infections (e.g., tuberculosis), autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. Stress, inflammation, or medications may also play a role.
What causes a low monocyte count?
Low monocyte counts may occur due to bone marrow disorders, immune system disorders, or certain medications. Severe infections or long-term illness can also deplete these cells.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition. Your doctor will determine how often to check based on your diagnosis, symptoms, or treatment plan.
  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