Monocyte count (qualitative cell count of peripheral blood)
This test evaluates the number of monocytes, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. It may be used to assess immune function or identify potential infections, inflammation, or blood disorders.
["Monocytes help your body fight infections and respond to inflammation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72343-7
- Short code
- Monocytes/Rnd cells NFr Smn Manual
- Synonyms
- Monocytes/Rnd cells NFr Smn Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 20
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 85651
- 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 Is a Monocyte Count Test Used For?
A qualitative monocyte count is often performed as part of a general blood test to help diagnose conditions like chronic infections, certain cancers (e.g., leukemia), or immune system disorders. It may also be used to monitor treatment responses in patients with ongoing health concerns.
How Is This Test Performed?
Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then examined under a microscope to count the number of monocytes relative to other white blood cells. This is a manual process, meaning a trained lab technician directly observes and records the results.
What Does a Monocyte Count Tell You?
While this test provides a qualitative (non-numeric) assessment of monocyte presence, elevated or reduced levels may suggest underlying health issues. For example, high monocyte counts can indicate chronic inflammation or infection, while very low counts might point to immune deficiencies or certain blood disorders.
What Are Common Reasons for Testing?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent fevers, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or if you’re undergoing treatment for conditions like cancer or autoimmune diseases. It may also be part of routine monitoring for patients with known immune or blood-related conditions.
Reference range
Adult males: 0-15 mm/hr; Females: 0-20 mm/hrN/A
No special preparation required. CRP may be affected by acute illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Monocytes play a key role in immune surveillance and tissue repair. Elevated monocyte counts can signal chronic inflammation, infections, or malignancies, while low counts may indicate immune suppression or certain blood disorders. This test is often used as part of a broader diagnostic evaluation rather than a standalone test for specific conditions.
Short name
Monocyte Screening Count
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor request this test?
What should I expect during the test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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