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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 by attacking bacteria and other harmful substances.

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
26502-5
Short code
Neutrophils # Prt
Synonyms
Neutrophils # Prt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Is Done

Doctors may order this test to check for infections, blood disorders, or immune system issues. It can also help diagnose conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or severe infections such as sepsis.

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 usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch or slight discomfort.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, very low counts (below normal) may indicate infections, bone marrow disorders, or immune deficiencies. Very high counts (above normal) might suggest chronic infections, inflammation, or other conditions.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophils

Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can occur due to medications, chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, or genetic disorders. High neutrophil counts (neutrophilia) may be linked to infections, stress, or certain cancers.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)

Frequently asked questions

What causes my neutrophil count to be unusually high or low?
Unusual levels can stem from infections (like pneumonia or urinary tract infections), inflammatory diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis), or conditions affecting your bone marrow (like leukemia). Chronic stress, certain medications, or autoimmune disorders may also play a role. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider for personalized insights.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your medical history, symptoms, and ongoing treatments. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have conditions like cancer, autoimmune diseases, or chronic infections.
Can diet or lifestyle affect neutrophil counts?
While diet and lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, and exercise can influence your immune system, they don’t directly alter neutrophil counts measured in this test. However, maintaining a balanced diet and managing stress may support overall immune health.
  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