Leukocyte Differential (Cell Count) with Absolute Counts
This test measures the types and quantities of white blood cells in your blood, helping identify infections, inflammation, or other conditions.
["Understanding your white blood cell types can help diagnose health issues early."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88335-5
- Short code
- Predominant leukocyte Ear Micro
- Synonyms
- Predominant leukocyte Ear Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4
- Ref high
- 10
- Critical range
- — – 100 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- 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 a leukocyte differential test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections (such as bacterial or viral), autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders. It can also help assess how well your immune system is responding to treatment.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a simple blood draw, usually done in a doctor’s office or lab. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
The test reports the percentage and absolute count of each type of white blood cell (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils). Abnormal results may indicate infections, allergies, or other health concerns.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
High or low counts of certain white blood cells can signal problems, such as infections (e.g., high neutrophils), chronic inflammation (e.g., high lymphocytes), or immune disorders (e.g., low lymphocytes).
Reference range
NCBI: WBC 4000-10000/mm³N/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Leukocyte differentials are critical for diagnosing infections, autoimmune diseases, and blood disorders. For example, elevated neutrophils often point to bacterial infections, while low lymphocyte counts may suggest immune suppression or certain cancers.
Short name
Leukocyte differential
Frequently asked questions
What does a leukocyte differential test measure?
Can fasting affect this test?
How long does it take to get results?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy