Monocyte and Macrophage Count Ratio (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the relative proportions of monocytes and macrophages in a blood sample, often analyzed alongside complete blood counts.
["Helps assess immune cell balance in blood and may indicate inflammation or immune system function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30439-4
- Short code
- Monos+Macros NFr Spec
- Synonyms
- Monos+Macros NFr Spec
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 This Test Measuring?
Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that develop into macrophages, which are immune cells that help fight infections and remove debris. This test compares their relative amounts in your blood, typically derived from a complete blood count (CBC) or similar panel. While not a standalone test, it can be part of broader immune or inflammatory evaluations.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect conditions affecting immune cell balance, such as chronic inflammation, certain infections, or autoimmune diseases. It may also be used in research or specialized diagnostics where precise immune profiling is needed.
How Is the Test Performed?
Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is processed to separate and count the different white blood cell types, including monocytes and macrophages. Results are often expressed as a ratio or relative proportion rather than absolute counts.
What Do Results Mean?
Interpretation depends on clinical context. Elevated ratios may suggest overactive immune responses or certain infections, while altered ratios could indicate immune dysfunction. Your provider will discuss findings with you based on your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is not a standalone diagnostic tool but may complement other evaluations. It can help identify trends in immune cell behavior, particularly in chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers, or long-term infections. Always correlate results with symptoms and other tests for accurate diagnosis.
Short name
Monocyte-to-Macrophage Ratio
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low monocyte-to-macrophage ratio mean?
Is this test covered by insurance?
How often should I get 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