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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 fight infections and inflammation.

Quick summary

["Monocytes help your immune system respond to illness and injury."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30442-8
Short code
Monocytes NFr Ur
Synonyms
Monocytes NFr Ur
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to check for infections, certain blood disorders, or immune system issues. It can also help monitor conditions like chronic inflammation or leukemia. Sometimes, it’s part of a routine blood panel to assess overall health.

What to Expect Before the Test

You won’t need special preparation. A healthcare provider will take a small blood sample from your arm. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch. No fasting is required unless instructed otherwise.

What the Results Mean

Results show the absolute number of monocytes in your blood. High levels may suggest infections, certain cancers, or immune disorders, while low levels could indicate bone marrow problems or immune suppression. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or track conditions like chronic inflammation, certain infections, or blood cancers. It may also be used to evaluate immune responses after treatments like chemotherapy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Elevated or low monocyte counts can signal underlying health issues. High levels may indicate chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or malignancies, while low levels could reflect bone marrow dysfunction or immune suppression. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

Short name

Monocyte Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes high monocyte counts?
High monocyte counts can occur due to infections (like tuberculosis or chronic bacterial infections), certain cancers (e.g., leukemia), or inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis). Stress or recent illness may also temporarily raise levels.
What causes low monocyte counts?
Low monocyte counts may result from bone marrow disorders (e.g., aplastic anemia), immune system diseases (e.g., HIV/AIDS), or certain medications. Severe infections or stress can also deplete monocytes.
Can diet affect monocyte levels?
Diet may indirectly influence immune function, but it doesn’t directly change monocyte counts. Eating a balanced diet supports overall health, which can help your immune system work better.
  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