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Neutrophil count (absolute)

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 protect your body from infections; low or high levels may signal health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26511-6
Short code
Neutrophils NFr Bld
Synonyms
Neutrophils NFr Bld
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order an absolute neutrophil count to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, certain cancers (e.g., leukemia), autoimmune diseases, or to check how your body responds to treatments that suppress white blood cells.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to your baseline or general reference ranges (not provided here). Low neutrophil counts may indicate immune suppression, while very high counts could suggest infection or inflammation. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your health.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophils

Neutrophil counts can drop due to infections, chemotherapy, or certain medications. They may rise in response to infections, stress, or inflammatory conditions. Chronic diseases like diabetes or kidney problems can also influence these levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Neutrophils are critical for fighting bacterial infections. Abnormally low counts (neutropenia) increase infection risk, while very high counts (neutrophilia) may signal acute infection or other systemic issues. Your doctor will use these results alongside other symptoms and tests to guide care.

Short name

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)

Frequently asked questions

What causes low neutrophil counts?
Low neutrophil counts can result from infections, certain medications (e.g., chemotherapy), autoimmune diseases, or genetic conditions. Chronic illnesses like kidney disease or liver failure may also play a role.
What causes high neutrophil counts?
High neutrophil counts often appear during infections (especially bacterial), stress, or inflammatory conditions. Rarely, they may signal conditions like leukemia or other blood disorders.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health needs. Your doctor may recommend this test periodically if you have conditions like cancer, autoimmune diseases, or if you’re undergoing treatments that affect white blood cells.
  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