Neutrophil count (absolute)
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 invaders.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; low or high levels may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86163-3
- Short code
- S pneum Da 9N Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- S pneum Da 9N Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 to check for infections, blood disorders, or immune system issues. It’s often used when you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or signs of infection, or if you’re undergoing treatment for conditions like cancer or autoimmune diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—you can use numbing cream or ask about sedation options.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a count of neutrophils per microliter of blood (e.g., 1,500–8,000/µL). Very low counts (below 1,500/µL) may mean you’re at higher risk for infections, while very high counts (above 8,000/µL) could indicate inflammation or other conditions.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can result from chemotherapy, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or genetic disorders. High neutrophil counts (neutrophilia) may signal infections, stress, or inflammatory conditions like appendicitis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Absolute neutrophil count (ANC)
Frequently asked questions
Low neutrophil counts can increase your risk of severe infections, especially if you’re undergoing treatments that weaken your immune system (e.g., chemotherapy). High counts may signal an active infection or other underlying health issues that need further evaluation.
An ANC of 2,000/µL is below the lower end of the typical range. This may indicate neutropenia, which can make you more susceptible to infections. Your provider will discuss next steps, such as monitoring for symptoms or adjusting treatments if applicable.
Several factors can raise your neutrophil count, including infections (especially bacterial), stress, or inflammatory conditions. If your provider notices this, they may recommend further tests to identify the cause, such as blood cultures or imaging studies.
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