Neutrophil count (qualitative or semi-quantitative differential count from blood smear)
This test evaluates the proportion of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections and inflammation.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; their levels can signal health risks or conditions like infections or autoimmune disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40536-5
- Short code
- Neutrophils NFr DiafP Manual
- Synonyms
- Neutrophils NFr DiafP Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 82105
- SNOMED
- 394971007
- 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unexplained fevers, or signs of inflammation. It could also be part of routine blood work to monitor chronic conditions.
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 blood. The process takes about 5 minutes.
What the Results Mean
Results are qualitative or semi-quantitative, meaning they describe the relative proportion of neutrophils compared to other white blood cells. High levels may indicate infection or inflammation, while low levels could suggest immune suppression or other conditions.
Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophils
Elevated neutrophil counts might be seen in bacterial infections, certain cancers, or inflammatory diseases. Low neutrophil counts could be linked to autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy, or other immune system issues.
Reference range
Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Neutrophils play a critical role in the body’s immune response. Their count helps diagnose infections, inflammation, or conditions affecting white blood cell function, guiding treatment decisions.
Short name
Neutrophil Differential
Frequently asked questions
What causes my neutrophil count to change?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or supplements 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