White Blood Cell Count with Differential (Absolute Neutrophil Count)
This test measures the number of different types of white blood cells in your blood, focusing on the count of neutrophils, which are a key part of your immune system.
["Neutrophils help fight infections and inflammation; abnormal levels may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18407-7
- Short code
- WBC 12h UrnS Micro-nRate
- Synonyms
- WBC 12h UrnS Micro-nRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test to evaluate your immune response, detect infections (such as bacterial), or assess conditions like chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders. It can also help monitor treatment effectiveness for certain illnesses.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A simple blood draw from a vein in your arm is all that’s required. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort, but it’s generally quick and well-tolerated.
What the Results Mean
The test provides two main pieces of information: the overall white blood cell count and the proportion of neutrophils among them. While absolute neutrophil counts are often reported, the differential rate helps identify shifts in immune cell types that may indicate specific health issues.
Common Conditions Affecting Neutrophils
High neutrophil counts (neutrophilia) may signal infections, stress, or certain inflammatory conditions. Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can be linked to infections, autoimmune diseases, or medications that suppress the immune system. Both extremes require further medical evaluation.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
WBC Differential (Neutrophil Rate)
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What does an abnormal neutrophil count mean?
Can diet or lifestyle affect neutrophil counts?
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