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Neutrophil Segment Count in Blood (Absolute Count)

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 inflammation.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils protect your body from infections and help reduce inflammation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33387-2
Short code
Neuts Seg NFr Pcar
Synonyms
Neuts Seg NFr Pcar
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

What Neutrophils Do in Your Body

Neutrophils are a key part of your immune system. They detect and destroy bacteria and fungi, and release chemicals to reduce swelling and infection. High or low counts can signal health issues.

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order this test to check for infections, inflammation, autoimmune conditions, or blood disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses, such as for certain cancers or blood diseases.

When to Expect Results

Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab. Follow up with your healthcare provider for interpretation.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Counts

High neutrophil counts may indicate infections, stress, or certain cancers. Low counts can suggest immune disorders, infections, or medications that suppress white blood cells.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Neutrophils play a critical role in immune defense, and abnormal counts can indicate underlying health problems. Your doctor will use this test alongside other factors to diagnose or guide treatment.

Short name

Absolute Neutrophil Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes a high neutrophil count?
High neutrophil counts can result from infections (like bacterial infections), stress, inflammation, or certain medical conditions such as leukemia or autoimmune diseases.
What causes a low neutrophil count?
Low neutrophil counts may occur due to infections, certain medications (like chemotherapy), autoimmune diseases, or conditions that weaken the bone marrow’s ability to produce white blood cells.
How is this test different from a complete blood count (CBC)?
While a CBC includes neutrophil counts as part of a broader blood panel, this test specifically isolates and measures neutrophils alone, often used for more focused evaluation of immune function.
  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