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Neutrophil Absolute Count (Blood)

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 and inflammation.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections and help manage inflammation in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38996-5
Short code
Neutrophils Ur Ql Micro
Synonyms
Neutrophils Ur Ql Micro
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
microscopy-light
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to check for infections, inflammation, or blood disorders. High neutrophil counts can indicate infections, allergies, or certain cancers, while low counts may signal immune problems or severe infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

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

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as the absolute number of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, very high or very low counts may signal underlying health concerns.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophils

High neutrophil counts might suggest bacterial infections, chronic inflammation, or conditions like leukemia. Low counts can indicate immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, or severe infections like sepsis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Neutrophil Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes a high neutrophil count?
High neutrophil counts can be due to infections (especially bacterial), stress, smoking, or certain medications. Chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or cancer may also contribute.
What causes a low neutrophil count?
Low neutrophil counts often result from immune system disorders, chemotherapy, severe infections, or conditions like aplastic anemia. Rarely, genetic disorders may play a role.
Can diet affect neutrophil counts?
Diet alone rarely changes neutrophil counts, but maintaining a balanced diet supports overall immune function. Avoiding excessive alcohol or smoking may help support healthy blood cell production.
  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