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Promyelocyte count in peripheral blood (fluid)

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

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

Quick summary

["Promyelocytes help diagnose or monitor blood conditions like leukemia or infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
17799-8
Short code
Promyelocytes NFr Fld
Synonyms
Promyelocytes NFr Fld
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
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

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising, or unexplained bleeding. It can also be part of routine blood work or monitoring for conditions like leukemia, where immature white blood cells are present.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. This is usually quick and painless, though you might feel a slight pinch.

What the Test Results Mean

An elevated promyelocyte count may suggest conditions like acute myeloid leukemia (AML), where bone marrow produces too many immature white blood cells. A normal or low count typically indicates healthy blood cell development. Your results will be reviewed by a healthcare provider to guide further care.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or track blood cancers (such as leukemia), infections, or other immune system disorders. It helps doctors understand how well your bone marrow is producing mature blood cells.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Promyelocyte count

Frequently asked questions

What does a high promyelocyte count mean?
A high promyelocyte count may signal a blood disorder, such as leukemia, where the bone marrow is overproducing immature white blood cells. Your doctor will evaluate the full picture, including other blood tests and symptoms, to determine the cause.
Can diet or lifestyle affect promyelocyte counts?
Diet and lifestyle factors generally do not directly influence promyelocyte counts, as these cells are part of the bone marrow’s natural production process. However, conditions like infections, stress, or certain medications may temporarily affect blood cell counts.
How often will I need this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition. If you have a known blood disorder, your doctor may order this test regularly to monitor progression or response to treatment. Otherwise, it may be done only when symptoms or other tests suggest it’s needed.
  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