White Blood Cell Differential with Automated Counting (Other Blood Components)
This test measures the types and proportions of white blood cells in your blood, excluding the total white blood cell count. It helps identify infections, immune responses, or other blood disorders.
["Understanding your white blood cell types can reveal clues about your health status or underlying conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15190-2
- Short code
- WBC Other Bld Auto
- Synonyms
- WBC Other Bld Auto
- 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
- Method
- automated-count
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections (bacterial or viral), autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, or reactions to medications. It can also help assess immune function or check for signs of inflammation.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
The test provides percentages of different white blood cell types, such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Abnormal levels may indicate infections, allergies, or other health concerns.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
High or low counts of specific white blood cells can signal conditions like chronic infections, leukemia, or immune deficiencies. For example, low lymphocytes might suggest HIV or other immune disorders, while high eosinophils could indicate allergies or parasitic infections.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
WBC Differential (Auto)
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal white blood cell differential usually indicate?
Can diet or medications affect white blood cell counts?
How often should I get this test?
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