Neutrophil Absolute Count (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections by attacking bacteria and other invaders.
["Neutrophils help protect your body from infections; this test checks their count in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39587-1
- Short code
- Neutrophil Ab Ser Ql IA
- Synonyms
- Neutrophil Ab Ser Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 diagnose or monitor conditions affecting your immune system, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, or blood disorders. It can also help assess how your body is responding to treatment for these conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your vein (usually in your arm) to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless, though some people may feel a brief pinch.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are typically reported as the absolute number of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. High neutrophil counts may indicate infections, inflammation, or other medical conditions. Low counts can signal immune deficiencies or certain medications.
Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Levels
Elevated neutrophil counts can be seen in bacterial infections, chronic inflammation, or conditions like leukemia. Low neutrophil counts may suggest immune disorders, chemotherapy side effects, or autoimmune diseases.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Neutrophils are crucial for fighting bacterial infections. High counts often point to active infection or inflammation, while low counts may indicate weakened immunity or side effects from treatments. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Short name
Neutrophil Count
Frequently asked questions
What causes a high neutrophil count?
What causes a low neutrophil count?
Can diet affect neutrophil counts?
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