Mononuclear Cell Differential Count (Manual Count)
This test measures the number of specific white blood cells called mononuclear cells in your blood, which include lymphocytes and monocytes. These cells play key roles in your immune response.
This test helps assess immune function and identify potential blood disorders.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71629-0
- Short code
- Mononuc Cells NFr.DF Prt Manual
- Synonyms
- Mononuc Cells NFr.DF Prt Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate your immune system, check for infections, or diagnose conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, or immune deficiencies. It can also help monitor treatments for blood disorders.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then examined under a microscope by a trained technician to count the mononuclear cells manually, rather than using automated equipment.
What Are Mononuclear Cells?
Mononuclear cells are a type of white blood cell that includes lymphocytes (which help fight infections) and monocytes (which develop into macrophages to clean up debris and pathogens). These cells are part of your body’s immune defense system.
How Is the Test Performed?
After drawing your blood, the sample is spread thinly on a microscope slide. A technician carefully examines the slide under a microscope, counting the mononuclear cells in a set area to determine their concentration.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal levels of mononuclear cells can indicate various health issues. For example, a low count might suggest immune deficiencies or certain infections, while a high count could point to chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. This test helps guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression.
Short name
Manual Mononuclear Cell Count
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low mononuclear cell count mean?
How long does it take to get results?
The blood draw itself may cause mild discomfort or soreness at the injection site, but the manual counting process itself is not painful. Most people find the discomfort brief and manageable.
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