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Neutrophil Absolute Count (Serum or Plasma)

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; abnormal levels may signal health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111375-2
Short code
Neutrophil Ab Msmt Ser
Synonyms
Neutrophil Ab Msmt Ser
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 a Neutrophil Count?

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in your body’s immune response. They help identify and destroy bacteria, preventing infections. This test provides a quantitative measure of neutrophils in your blood, typically drawn from serum or plasma.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order a neutrophil count to diagnose or monitor conditions such as infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain blood disorders. High or low neutrophil levels can indicate underlying health issues that need further evaluation.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is collected, usually from a vein in your arm. The sample is then processed to count the number of neutrophils. Results are expressed as the absolute number of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood.

What Do the Results Mean?

Results are interpreted based on your overall health and clinical context. Elevated neutrophil counts may suggest infection, inflammation, or other conditions like leukemia. Low neutrophil counts can indicate immune suppression or bone marrow disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Neutrophils are crucial for fighting bacterial infections. High levels may signal active infection or inflammation, while low levels can impair immune function and increase susceptibility to infections. This test helps guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression.

Short name

Neutrophil Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes high neutrophil counts?
High neutrophil counts can result from infections (such as bacterial infections), chronic inflammation, stress, or certain medications. Your doctor may also check levels during routine health assessments or to monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.
What causes low neutrophil counts?
Low neutrophil counts may occur due to infections, certain medications (like chemotherapy), autoimmune diseases, or bone marrow disorders. Severe deficiency can lead to frequent infections, which is why monitoring is important for patients with weakened immune systems.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your medical condition and doctor’s recommendations. Some patients may need regular monitoring, while others may only require testing during specific situations, like before surgery or during illness.
  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