Neutrophil Count Ratio (Absolute Neutrophil Count:White Blood Cell Differential Ratio)
This test compares the number of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) to the total white blood cell count in your blood. It helps assess immune function and identify infections or inflammatory conditions.
Measures immune response by evaluating neutrophil dominance in your bloodstream.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108267-6
- Short code
- Neutrophil CD64 MFI ratio in Blood FC
- Synonyms
- Neutrophil CD64 MFI ratio in Blood 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
What Is Neutrophil Ratio Used For?
Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell and play a key role in fighting infections. A neutrophil ratio helps doctors determine if your immune system is responding appropriately to illness, infection, or inflammation. It may also be used to monitor conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or severe infections where neutrophil counts can fluctuate.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small sample of your blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then analyzed in a lab to measure both the absolute neutrophil count and the white blood cell differential (the proportion of different white blood cell types). The ratio is calculated by dividing the absolute neutrophil count by the total white blood cell count.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unexplained fever, or signs of inflammation. It may also be used to monitor chronic conditions such as autoimmune disorders, cancer treatments, or infections like sepsis.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are not typically provided as a single reference range because the ratio can vary based on overall white blood cell counts and health conditions. Instead, your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history to determine if further action is needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Neutrophil Ratio plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing conditions where neutrophil dominance or deficiency may indicate underlying health issues. Elevated ratios can suggest overactive immune responses or infections, while abnormal ratios may point to immune system disorders or other systemic conditions.
Short name
Neutrophil Ratio
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor ask for this test?
What are the common causes of abnormal neutrophil ratios?
How often will I need 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