Neutrophil count in whole blood (absolute neutrophil count, ANC)
This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections by attacking bacteria and other harmful substances.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; low or high counts may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98030-0
- Short code
- NK cyto IL2 Pnl Bld MC FC
- Synonyms
- NK cyto IL2 Pnl Bld MC FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- 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 to check for infections, monitor immune function, or evaluate conditions like leukemia, autoimmune diseases, or certain blood disorders. It’s also used before chemotherapy or other treatments that can affect your immune system.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw a blood sample. The process takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re nervous, let your provider know.
What the Results Mean
Results are usually reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter of blood. A lower than normal count may indicate infection, bone marrow disorders, or immune suppression. A higher count could signal inflammation, infection, or other conditions. Your provider will discuss these results with you.
Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Counts
Conditions like severe infections (e.g., sepsis), certain cancers (e.g., leukemia), or autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus) can alter neutrophil levels. Chronic illnesses, stress, or medications (like steroids) may also impact these cells.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Neutrophils are the body’s first responders to infections. Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can make you more vulnerable to infections, especially bacterial ones, while very high counts (neutrophilia) may signal ongoing inflammation or other underlying issues. Regular monitoring is important for patients undergoing treatments that suppress the immune system.
Short name
Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
Will I feel any discomfort after the blood draw?
Can I eat or drink before 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