Neutrophil Band Count in Fluid (e.g., CSF or Body Fluid)
This test measures the number of immature white blood cells called neutrophil bands found in a sample of body fluid, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or other fluids like pleural or peritoneal fluid. These cells help identify infections or inflammatory processes in these areas.
["Neutrophil bands can signal serious infections or inflammation in body fluids."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26510-8
- Short code
- Neuts Band NFr Fld
- Synonyms
- Neuts Band NFr Fld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 86430
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, headache, neck stiffness, or signs of infection in body fluids. It’s also used to diagnose conditions such as meningitis, abscesses, or other infections where fluid analysis is needed.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. If the sample is taken from a body fluid (e.g., CSF), you may experience mild discomfort, but it’s generally quick and done under sterile conditions.
What the Test Results Mean
High levels of neutrophil bands in fluid often indicate an active infection or severe inflammation. Low or absent levels may suggest other conditions, such as viral infections or certain immune disorders. Results are interpreted by your doctor in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Causes of Elevated Neutrophil Bands
Elevated neutrophil bands in fluid are commonly linked to bacterial infections (e.g., bacterial meningitis, abscesses), severe inflammatory conditions, or trauma that triggers an immune response.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Neutrophil Bands in Fluid
Frequently asked questions
How is this test typically performed?
Is there any risk or discomfort associated with this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect 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