Skip to content

Neutrophil Count (Absolute)

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.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; low or high levels may signal health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
93352-3
Short code
Neut.CD64/Neutrophils NFr Bld FC
Synonyms
Neut.CD64/Neutrophils NFr Bld FC
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for infections, blood disorders, or immune system issues. It’s often used alongside other blood tests to assess overall health or diagnose conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or severe infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch or discomfort.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, very low counts (below normal) may indicate infections, bone marrow disorders, or immune suppression, while very high counts may signal inflammation, infections, or other conditions.

Common Conditions Linked to Neutrophil Levels

Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can make you more prone to infections, especially from bacteria. High neutrophil counts (neutrophilia) may suggest chronic infections, inflammation, or certain medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or stress.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Neutrophils play a critical role in fighting bacterial infections. Abnormal counts can signal underlying health issues, such as immune deficiencies, chronic diseases, or reactions to medications. Your provider will discuss results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

Short name

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)

Frequently asked questions

What causes a low neutrophil count?
Low neutrophil counts can result from infections, certain medications (like chemotherapy), autoimmune diseases, or conditions affecting bone marrow function. Severe cases may require further testing to identify the cause.
What causes a high neutrophil count?
High neutrophil counts often appear during infections, inflammation, or stress. They may also occur in conditions like acute infections, certain cancers, or as a reaction to illness or trauma.
Can diet or lifestyle affect neutrophil counts?
Diet and lifestyle factors like poor nutrition, chronic stress, or smoking may influence white blood cell counts indirectly, but they don’t directly alter neutrophil levels. Focus on maintaining overall health to support 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