Neutrophil Count (Absolute)

What Neutrophils Do in Your Body

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play a critical role in your immune response. They help your body fight off bacterial infections by destroying harmful bacteria. When you have an infection, your body often produces more neutrophils to help fight it. This test helps doctors understand how well your immune system is responding to infections.

When This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or persistent cough. It may also be used to monitor conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or after chemotherapy to check how your immune system is recovering.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. It is typically done by drawing blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and usually painless, though you might feel a slight pinch.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as the number of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. While reference ranges can vary slightly by lab, a lower than normal count may indicate an infection, immune disorder, or certain medications. A higher than normal count might suggest inflammation, infection, or other health issues.