Neutrophil count (absolute) in whole blood by manual differential cell count

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate your immune system, check for infections, or monitor conditions like chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. It can also help assess how well your body is responding to treatment for blood disorders or 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. If you’re on blood-thinning medications, let your provider know to avoid unnecessary bleeding.

What the Test Results Mean

Results show the absolute number of neutrophils per microliter of blood. Low levels may indicate infections, bone marrow disorders, or immune system issues, while very high levels could suggest severe infections, inflammation, or other medical conditions.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Count

Neutrophil counts can be affected by infections (like pneumonia or urinary tract infections), certain medications (e.g., steroids), autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus), or blood disorders (e.g., leukemia). Chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease may also influence these levels.