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Monocyte Count in Blood (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 protect your body by identifying and responding to harmful substances."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26493-7
Short code
Mononuc Cells NFr Fld
Synonyms
Mononuc Cells NFr Fld
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
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 Are Monocytes?

Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that circulate in your bloodstream. They play a key role in immune response by detecting and destroying pathogens like bacteria and viruses. When your body is fighting an infection or responding to inflammation, monocyte levels may temporarily rise.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order a monocyte count test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as infections, certain cancers (like leukemia), autoimmune diseases, or to evaluate how your immune system is responding to treatment.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small sample of your blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to count the number of monocytes present.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are typically reported as the absolute number of monocytes per microliter (µL) of blood. Abnormal levels may suggest underlying health issues, but specific interpretations depend on clinical context and other test results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Monocyte Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes a high monocyte count?
High monocyte counts can occur due to chronic infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain cancers. Stress, physical exertion, or certain medications may also temporarily affect levels.
What causes a low monocyte count?
Low monocyte counts may result from immune system disorders, bone marrow problems, or certain medications. Severe infections or autoimmune diseases can also lead to reduced monocyte levels.
Can lifestyle changes affect monocyte counts?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress management can influence immune cell activity, though they rarely drastically alter monocyte counts on their own. Maintaining overall health supports normal immune function.
  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