Monocyte count (per microliter of whole blood)
This test measures the number of monocytes, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Monocytes help fight infections and regulate immune responses.
["Monocytes help protect your body from infections and inflammation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 70037-7
- Short code
- Mononuc Cells NFr Pcar Auto
- Synonyms
- Mononuc Cells NFr Pcar Auto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- automated-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
What Is a Monocyte Count?
A monocyte count determines the presence of monocytes in your bloodstream. These cells are part of your immune system and play a role in identifying and destroying pathogens like bacteria and viruses. They also help remove dead cells and debris from your body.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order a monocyte count to diagnose or monitor conditions like chronic infections, certain cancers (e.g., leukemia), autoimmune diseases, or to assess immune function before treatments like chemotherapy.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to count the number of monocytes per microliter of blood.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are typically reported as a count (e.g., cells/µL). Higher or lower than expected levels may signal underlying health issues that need further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Monocyte Blood Count
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test?
What are the normal ranges?
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