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Granulocyte Count (Absolute Neutrophil Count, ANC)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections. Neutrophils are key to your body’s immune response.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils protect you from bacterial infections and help heal wounds."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
102845-5
Short code
Whitefish IgG RAST
Synonyms
Whitefish IgG RAST
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rast
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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

What Neutrophil Count Measures

Your blood sample is analyzed to count the absolute number of neutrophils. Neutrophils are a subset of white blood cells (leukocytes) that play a critical role in defending against bacterial infections. The test helps doctors assess your immune function and identify issues like infections, inflammation, or certain blood disorders.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to evaluate symptoms such as frequent infections, fever, fatigue, or signs of immune dysfunction. It’s also used before chemotherapy or other treatments that weaken the immune system to monitor risk of infection.

When to Expect Results

Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can occur due to infections, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or blood disorders. High neutrophil counts may signal inflammation, stress, or other underlying conditions like leukemia.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

ANC

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for neutrophil counts to return to normal after treatment?
Recovery time depends on the cause. If neutropenia was due to infection, your body may recover within days. For conditions like chemotherapy-induced neutropenia, recovery can take weeks to months as your bone marrow rebuilds the cells.
Can I eat or drink anything special before this test?
No special preparations are needed. However, avoid smoking or excessive alcohol before your blood draw, as these may affect your immune response.
What does a very low neutrophil count mean?
A very low neutrophil count (often below 1,500 cells per microliter) increases your risk of severe infections, which can be life-threatening. Your doctor will guide you on precautions, such as avoiding crowds or certain medications, to reduce infection risk.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy