Total White Blood Cell Count (WBC) with Differential (Electrophoresis)
This test measures the total number of white blood cells in your blood and breaks down their types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils) using an electrophoresis method. It helps assess immune function and identify infections, inflammation, or other blood disorders.
["This test helps doctors diagnose and monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders by examining your immune system’s cell composition."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 61322-4
- Short code
- White Elm IgE/IgE total %
- Synonyms
- White Elm IgE/IgE total %
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
Your doctor may order this test to check for signs of infection, such as bacterial or viral illnesses, or to evaluate conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, or other blood-related disorders. It can also help monitor immune responses or reactions to treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A simple blood draw is performed, usually from a vein in your arm. The blood is then analyzed using an electrophoresis technique to separate and count the different white blood cell types.
What the Results Mean
The results provide a detailed breakdown of your white blood cell counts. Abnormal levels—such as high or low counts, or unusual proportions of cell types—can signal underlying health issues that require further medical evaluation.
Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose
High white blood cell counts (leukocytosis) may indicate infections, inflammation, or stress, while low counts (leukopenia) could suggest immune deficiencies, bone marrow disorders, or certain medications. Uneven cell distributions may point to conditions like allergies, autoimmune diseases, or blood cancers.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for identifying immune system imbalances, guiding treatment for infections, and monitoring chronic conditions like cancer or autoimmune disorders. It helps doctors tailor therapies to address specific cell type abnormalities.
Short name
WBC Diff (Serum Electrophoresis)
Frequently asked questions
What does a 'white blood cell differential' measure?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle affect white blood cell counts?
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