Neutrophil Segment Count in Blood (Absolute)

What Neutrophils Do in Your Body

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play a critical role in your immune system. They help your body fight off infections caused by bacteria and some viruses. When you have an infection or inflammation, your body produces more neutrophils to protect you. Too few or too many neutrophils can affect your health differently, depending on the cause.

When This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unexplained fevers, or signs of inflammation. It can also be used to monitor conditions like certain blood disorders, autoimmune diseases, or infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

You won’t need any special preparation for this test. A simple blood draw from a vein in your arm is all that’s required. The process is quick and usually painless.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (cells/µL) of blood. While specific reference ranges can vary by lab, lower than expected counts may suggest immune deficiencies or infections, while higher counts might indicate inflammation or infection.