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Whole Blood Disintegrated Nuclear Fragment Count

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

This test measures the number of nuclear fragments released from red blood cells during their breakdown process. These fragments are part of the normal lifecycle of red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Understanding nuclear fragment levels can help assess red blood cell health and potential blood disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
68378-9
Short code
WBC.disintegrated NFr Bld
Synonyms
WBC.disintegrated NFr Bld
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
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
CPT
85004
SNOMED
900000000000003002
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

What Does This Test Measure?

The test evaluates disintegrated nuclear fragments (DNFs) in whole blood. These fragments are remnants of red blood cells (RBCs) that have aged and broken down. The count reflects how efficiently RBCs are being recycled in your body.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or signs of anemia. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions affecting red blood cell production or destruction.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate and analyze nuclear fragments from red blood cells.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are typically reported as a count of nuclear fragments per volume of blood. Higher than expected counts may indicate abnormal red blood cell breakdown, while lower counts could suggest other underlying issues.

Reference range

Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What does a high nuclear fragment count mean?
A high count could suggest your body is breaking down red blood cells more rapidly than usual. This might be due to conditions like autoimmune hemolytic anemia, where your immune system attacks healthy red blood cells, or other blood disorders.
What could cause a low nuclear fragment count?
A low count might indicate that red blood cells are not breaking down normally, which could be linked to conditions affecting red blood cell production, such as bone marrow disorders or severe nutritional deficiencies.
Is this test commonly used for routine health checks?
This test is not typically part of standard routine health checks. It is usually ordered when there are specific symptoms or concerns related to red blood cell health.
  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