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White Blood Cell Count with Differential Autoanalysis

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

This test measures the total number of white blood cells (WBCs) in your blood and breaks them down into their different types, which helps assess your immune system and detect infections or other conditions.

Quick summary

["Your immune health and potential infections can be evaluated with this simple blood test."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53316-6
Short code
WBC Ur Ql Auto
Synonyms
WBC Ur Ql 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
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

What Does This Test Measure?

The test includes a **total white blood cell count** (total WBC) and a **differential count**, which identifies five types of white blood cells: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. These cells play key roles in fighting infections and maintaining immune function.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal), autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, or to check for signs of inflammation. It’s also used before surgeries or treatments that may affect your immune system.

When Is This Test Performed?

This test is typically done as part of a routine blood draw, often as a screening test. It may be requested during illness, before medical procedures, or if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know beforehand to avoid unusual bleeding.

Reference range

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

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

WBC with Differential

Frequently asked questions

How Does This Test Help Doctors?
Abnormal WBC counts can signal infections (e.g., high neutrophils may indicate bacterial infections), immune disorders (e.g., low lymphocytes may suggest HIV or lymphoma), or chronic conditions like leukemia. The differential helps pinpoint which cell types are affected.
What Are Common Results?
Results are compared to general reference ranges, but individual results vary by lab. A high WBC count may mean infection or inflammation, while a low count could indicate immune suppression or other health issues.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine frequency based on your health. Routine checks may occur annually or more often if you have ongoing medical conditions.
  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