White Blood Cell Count with Automated Differentiation
This test measures the total number of white blood cells in your blood and automatically breaks down their types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils).
["Your doctor may use this test to check for infections, immune system issues, or blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51487-7
- Short code
- WBC # Ur Auto
- Synonyms
- WBC # Ur Auto
- 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
- automated-count
- 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 Matters
White blood cells (WBCs) help protect your body from infections and diseases. A high or low count can signal health problems, such as infections, autoimmune conditions, or blood disorders. This test helps doctors monitor your immune system and guide treatment.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The lab uses advanced technology to count all WBCs and identify their types automatically. This process is faster and more accurate than manual methods.
Common Reasons for Testing
Doctors order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections (e.g., pneumonia, urinary tract infections), blood cancers (e.g., leukemia), immune disorders (e.g., lupus), or reactions to medications.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a slight bruise or pinch at the injection site, but it usually fades quickly. Avoid heavy exercise or aspirin 24 hours before the test if your doctor advises it.
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.
An elevated WBC count may indicate an infection, inflammation, or stress on the body. A low WBC count could signal immune suppression, bone marrow disorders, or severe infections. The specific types of WBCs can also reveal clues about underlying health issues, such as allergies (eosinophils) or chronic diseases (monocytes).
Short name
WBC AutoDiff
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Will I feel any pain or discomfort?
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