Neutrophil Absolute Count (Serum/Plasma Concentration)
This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; abnormal levels may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5171-4
- Short code
- Neutrophil Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Neutrophil Ab Ser-aCnc
- 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 Testing For?
Neutrophils are part of your immune system and play a critical role in combating bacterial infections. This test helps doctors assess whether your immune response is functioning normally or if there’s an overactive or underactive response. It may also be used to diagnose conditions like infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain blood disorders.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider might order a neutrophil count test if you have symptoms like frequent or severe infections, unexplained fever, fatigue, or if you have a known condition that affects your immune system, such as leukemia or autoimmune diseases. It may also be part of routine blood work or monitoring for chronic illnesses.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to count the number of neutrophils. The result is expressed as a specific concentration value.
What Do the Results Mean?
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your overall health, symptoms, and medical history. High neutrophil counts may indicate infection, inflammation, or other conditions, while very low counts could suggest immune deficiencies or certain blood disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Neutrophils are crucial for fighting bacterial infections. Elevated levels often point to active infection or inflammation, while low levels may signal immune system dysfunction or other underlying health issues. Your doctor will use these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Short name
Neutrophil Count
Frequently asked questions
Why did my doctor order this test?
What are the typical reference ranges for this test?
Can I eat or drink before 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