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Neutrophil Segment Count in Whole Blood (Manual Differential)

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 are part of your body’s immune response.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils are key to detecting infections or inflammation in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
766-6
Short code
Neuts Hyperseg # Bld Manual
Synonyms
Neuts Hyperseg # Bld Manual
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.4
Ref high
4
Critical range
0.1 N/A – 20 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
manual-count
CPT
84443
SNOMED
301343003
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unexplained fevers, or signs of inflammation. It could also be used to monitor conditions affecting white blood cells, such as certain cancers or immune disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The blood sample is then examined under a microscope by a trained technician to count neutrophils manually.

How the Results Are Interpreted

Results are typically reported as a percentage or absolute count of neutrophils in your blood. While reference ranges can vary by lab, abnormally high or low counts may signal underlying health concerns.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Levels

High neutrophil counts may indicate infections, inflammation, or stress. Low counts could suggest immune deficiencies, certain cancers, or blood disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

Reference range

Adult: 0.4-4.0 mIU/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Neutrophil Count (Manual Differential)

Frequently asked questions

What does a high neutrophil count mean?
A high neutrophil count often signals an active infection, such as bacterial infections, or conditions causing chronic inflammation. It may also appear after physical stress or trauma.
What does a low neutrophil count mean?
A low neutrophil count may indicate an immune system disorder, such as neutropenia, or could be linked to certain medications or blood-related conditions. It increases the risk of infections.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health status and medical needs. Your healthcare provider will determine how often to check this test based on your symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment plan.
  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