White Blood Cell Count (Manual Differential Count)
This test measures the types and proportions of white blood cells in your blood, using a manual method to count and classify each cell type.
["It helps assess immune function and identify infections or inflammatory conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24122-4
- Short code
- WBC # Ur Manual
- Synonyms
- WBC # Ur Manual
- 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
- manual-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 Is Done
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections (such as bacterial or viral), autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, or to evaluate immune responses. It’s also used during pregnancy to check for infections or other complications.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare provider will take a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The sample is then examined under a microscope by a trained technician to count and classify each white blood cell type manually.
Possible Results and Their Meaning
The manual differential provides detailed counts of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Abnormal counts may indicate infections, allergies, or other health issues requiring further 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.
High or low counts of specific white blood cells can signal different health concerns. For example, elevated neutrophils often point to bacterial infections, while high lymphocytes may suggest viral infections or chronic conditions. Monocytes can indicate chronic inflammation, and eosinophils may suggest allergies or parasitic infections. Basophils are less commonly evaluated but can signal allergic reactions or myeloproliferative disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized insights.
Short name
WBC Differential (Manual)
Frequently asked questions
What Does a High or Low WBC Differential Mean?
Is This Test Different from a Standard WBC Count?
Can I Get This Test Without a Doctor’s Order?
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