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Myelocyte Count (Peripheral Blood)

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

This test measures the number of immature white blood cells called myelocytes in your blood. These cells are part of your body’s immune system and help fight infections.

Quick summary

["Myelocytes help assess bone marrow function and potential blood disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
749-2
Short code
Myelocytes NFr Bld Manual
Synonyms
Myelocytes NFr Bld Manual
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
manual-count
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect an issue with your bone marrow, such as overproduction or underproduction of blood cells. It can also help diagnose conditions like leukemia, anemia, or infections that affect white blood cell production.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your vein (usually in your arm) to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and typically painless. You may feel a slight pinch or sting, but most people tolerate it well.

What Happens During the Test

The blood sample is sent to a lab where it is examined under a microscope to count the myelocytes. This test is often performed as part of a complete blood count (CBC) or a detailed blood evaluation.

What the Results Mean

Results are usually reported as a count of myelocytes per microliter (µL) of blood. An abnormal count may indicate conditions affecting bone marrow or immune function, such as infections, cancers, or genetic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Understanding Myelocyte Counts

Short name

Myelocyte Count

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated myelocyte count mean?
An elevated myelocyte count may suggest conditions like chronic infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain types of leukemia, where the bone marrow is producing extra immature white blood cells as a response.
What does a low myelocyte count mean?
A low myelocyte count could indicate bone marrow suppression, severe infections, or certain blood disorders that impair the production of white blood cells. It’s important to discuss symptoms with your healthcare provider.
How often is this test repeated?
This test is often repeated if your healthcare provider suspects an ongoing or worsening condition affecting your blood cells. They may also order additional tests to get a full picture of your health.
  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