Neutrophil Count (Absolute)
This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections. Neutrophils are crucial for your body’s immune response.
["Neutrophils protect you from bacterial infections and help clear dead tissue."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98989-7
- Short code
- Neuts Band NFr.DF Bld Auto
- Synonyms
- Neuts Band NFr.DF Bld Auto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- automated-count
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for infections, inflammation, or conditions like leukemia, where the number of neutrophils might be too high or too low. It can also help monitor treatments for blood disorders or immune system conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your vein (venipuncture) to draw blood. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—some people find it helpful to talk through the process.
A healthcare professional will clean the area with an antiseptic, insert a needle into your arm, and collect a small amount of blood. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis. The process usually takes a few minutes.
After the blood is drawn, the needle is removed, and pressure is applied to the site to stop any bleeding. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort, but it should go away quickly. You can usually resume normal activities right away.
Results are compared to a standard range to determine if your neutrophil count is within normal limits. Very high or very low counts may signal underlying health issues that need further evaluation.
High neutrophil counts might indicate infections, stress, or certain medications. Low counts can happen with infections, autoimmune diseases, or treatments that suppress the immune system. Your provider will discuss findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Neutrophils play a key role in detecting and fighting bacterial infections. They’re also involved in healing wounds and removing dead cells. Abnormal counts can signal problems with your immune system or blood disorders.
Short name
Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my neutrophil count be low?
How long does it take to get my neutrophil test results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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