Skip to content

Neutrophil count (absolute, serum/plasma)

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

This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
51407-5
Short code
S pneum CPS IgG Ser IA-mCnc
Synonyms
S pneum CPS IgG Ser IA-mCnc
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
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 doctor may order this test to check for infections, inflammation, or other conditions that affect neutrophil levels, such as certain cancers, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses for conditions like leukemia or severe infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter (µL) of blood. Abnormally high or low levels may signal underlying health concerns.

Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophil Levels

High neutrophil counts (neutrophilia) can occur with infections, stress, or certain medications. Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) may indicate immune disorders, chemotherapy side effects, or other systemic illnesses.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

What causes high neutrophil levels?
High neutrophil counts are often due to infections (especially bacterial), inflammation, or stress. Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or certain cancers may also elevate them.
What causes low neutrophil levels?
Low neutrophil counts can result from infections, chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, or genetic disorders. Severe neutropenia may increase infection risk.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–2 business days, depending on lab processing times.
  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