Neutrophil count in body fluids (manual cell count)
This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in a body fluid sample. Neutrophils help fight infections but can also indicate inflammation or other conditions.
["Neutrophils are key to your body’s immune response—understanding their levels in fluids helps identify infections or inflammation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13354-6
- Short code
- Neuts Band NFr Fld Manual
- Synonyms
- Neuts Band NFr Fld Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- 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 Is Done
Doctors may order this test to evaluate suspected infections, inflammation, or immune disorders in body fluids like blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or other fluids. It can help diagnose conditions such as sepsis, abscesses, or certain cancers.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your doctor. If fluid is collected from a specific site (e.g., joint, wound), follow any precautions provided, such as avoiding certain activities or medications.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare provider will collect a sample of body fluid, which is then manually counted under a microscope to determine the number of neutrophils. This method is typically used for fluids like cerebrospinal fluid, joint fluid, or other specialized samples.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Results are reported as the absolute count of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of fluid. High neutrophil counts may suggest infection, inflammation, or other immune responses. Low counts could indicate immune deficiencies or certain medical conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated neutrophil counts in fluids often point to active infection, abscesses, or inflammatory processes. In cerebrospinal fluid, high neutrophils may indicate meningitis or other central nervous system infections. Doctors use these findings to guide treatment, such as antibiotics or further diagnostic testing.
Short name
Neutrophil Fluid Cell Count
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated neutrophil counts in fluids?
What if my neutrophil count is unusually low?
How often should I get 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