Neutrophil Count (Serum/plasma Substance Concentration)
This test measures the concentration of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood serum or plasma. Neutrophils help fight infections by attacking bacteria and other harmful substances.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against infections; abnormal levels may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73076-2
- Short code
- Neutrophil IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Neutrophil IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain blood disorders. It can also help assess how your body is responding to treatment for these conditions.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma, where the neutrophil concentration is measured using an automated blood analysis method.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are no special preparations needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally, but avoid strenuous activity before the blood draw if advised by your provider.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll lie down comfortably while a healthcare professional inserts a small needle into your arm. A small amount of blood is collected into a tube. The process usually takes a few minutes and may cause a slight pinch or discomfort.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated neutrophil levels may indicate an active infection, inflammation, or autoimmune conditions. Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can increase the risk of infections and may be linked to certain medications, genetic disorders, or blood cancers. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Neutrophil Level (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal ranges for this test?
How soon will I get my results?
Can I eat or drink anything 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