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Absolute count of promyelocytes in peripheral blood

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the number of immature white blood cells called promyelocytes in your blood. These cells are part of your body’s immune system and help identify certain blood disorders.

Quick summary

["A promyelocyte count helps diagnose or monitor blood cancers or infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26524-9
Short code
Promyelocytes NFr Bld
Synonyms
Promyelocytes NFr Bld
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 is this test done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising, or unexplained bleeding. It may also be used to monitor conditions such as leukemia, where abnormal white blood cell production is common.

What does a normal result mean?

A normal promyelocyte count is typically very low in healthy individuals, as these cells are not usually present in significant numbers in mature blood. Elevated counts may suggest certain blood disorders or infections.

How is the test performed?

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then examined under a microscope to count the promyelocytes among other blood cells.

What might abnormal results indicate?

Higher-than-normal promyelocyte counts may signal conditions like acute myeloid leukemia or other myeloproliferative disorders. Lower-than-normal counts are less common but could be associated with severe infections or other immune system issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Promyelocytes are immature white blood cells produced in the bone marrow. They play a role in the early stages of white blood cell development. Abnormal promyelocyte counts can reflect disruptions in blood cell production or function, often linked to cancers or immune system disorders.

Short name

Promyelocyte count

Frequently asked questions

What does a high promyelocyte count mean?
A high promyelocyte count may indicate a blood cancer such as acute myeloid leukemia, where the bone marrow produces too many immature white blood cells. It can also be seen in other conditions affecting blood cell production.
What does a low promyelocyte count mean?
A low promyelocyte count is rare in healthy individuals and may suggest severe infections, immune deficiencies, or other conditions disrupting normal blood cell development.
How often should I get this test?
Your healthcare provider will determine the frequency of testing based on your medical condition, symptoms, and treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have a known blood disorder.
  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