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Neutrophil count in fluid (absolute)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your body fluid. Neutrophils help fight infections.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils are key to your immune response but can indicate infection or inflammation when too high or low."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26513-2
Short code
Neutrophils NFr Fld
Synonyms
Neutrophils NFr Fld
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
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 check for infections, inflammation, or other medical conditions affecting your immune system. It can also help monitor conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or responses to treatments.

What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?

High neutrophil counts may suggest infections, stress, or certain cancers. Low counts could indicate immune disorders, bone marrow problems, or severe infections. Results alone don’t diagnose a condition but guide further testing.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophils

Conditions like bacterial infections, chronic inflammation, or blood disorders (e.g., leukemia) can alter neutrophil levels. Your provider will consider symptoms, medical history, and other test results for diagnosis.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The fluid is analyzed to count neutrophils, often as part of a complete blood count (CBC). Results are usually available within a few days.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Neutrophil count

Frequently asked questions

What causes high neutrophil counts?
High neutrophil counts are often due to infections (e.g., bacterial), stress, or inflammatory conditions. Rarely, they may signal conditions like acute myeloid leukemia or Cushing’s syndrome.
What causes low neutrophil counts?
Low neutrophil counts can result from bone marrow disorders, immune system issues (e.g., lupus), chemotherapy, or severe infections. Chronic kidney disease or vitamin deficiencies may also play a role.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Your provider will determine if regular monitoring is needed for conditions like cancer, autoimmune diseases, or ongoing infections.
  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