White Blood Cell Differential with Additional Qualitative Features (e.g., Morphology or Functional Markers)
This test examines the types and proportions of white blood cells in your blood, including any additional qualitative observations about their appearance or function. It helps assess immune health and identify potential infections, inflammation, or blood disorders.
["Understanding your white blood cell types can reveal clues about your immune system and overall health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30407-1
- Short code
- WBC Other NFr Pcar
- Synonyms
- WBC Other NFr Pcar
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- 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
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections (e.g., bacterial or viral), autoimmune diseases, leukemia, or other blood disorders. It can also help evaluate immune responses or guide treatment decisions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a simple blood draw, usually done in a doctor’s office or lab. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results show the percentage or count of different white blood cell types (e.g., neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes) and any qualitative notes (e.g., abnormal cell shapes or function). Abnormal findings may signal infections, inflammation, or immune system issues.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
High or low counts of certain white blood cells can indicate conditions like severe infections, chronic diseases (e.g., lupus), or immune deficiencies. For example, high neutrophils may point to infection, while low lymphocytes could suggest immunodeficiency.
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.
This test is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the immune system or blood composition. It provides a snapshot of your body’s defense mechanisms and helps tailor treatments to your specific needs.
Short name
WBC Differential (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘qualitative’ result mean in this test?
Will I need to fast before this test?
Can this test detect all types of infections?
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