Skip to content

Neutrophil Count (Manual Differential Count of Blood Cells)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections and inflammation.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils are key players in your immune response."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74426-8
Short code
Myelocytes.neut NFr Mar Manual
Synonyms
Myelocytes.neut NFr Mar 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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for infections, inflammation, or other conditions that affect your white blood cell count. It can also help monitor certain treatments or conditions like leukemia or autoimmune diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and usually painless.

How the Test Works

A small amount of blood is taken and examined under a microscope by a trained technician. The technician manually counts the number of neutrophils among other white blood cells.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter of blood. High or low counts can indicate different health issues, so your provider will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated neutrophil count may suggest an infection, inflammation, or stress response. A decreased count can indicate immune suppression, certain infections, or blood disorders. Your provider will use these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.

Short name

Neutrophil Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes a high neutrophil count?
High neutrophil counts can be caused by infections (like bacterial infections), inflammatory conditions, stress, or certain medications. Chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease may also lead to elevated neutrophils.
What causes a low neutrophil count?
Low neutrophil counts can result from infections (especially viral), certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders like leukemia. Severe stress or illness can also deplete neutrophil numbers temporarily.
Can I influence my neutrophil count?
While you can’t directly control your neutrophil count, managing stress, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking can support overall immune health. If you have a chronic condition, follow your healthcare provider’s advice for managing symptoms.
  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