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Neutrophil count (absolute, blood)

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

This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils help fight infections by attacking bacteria and other harmful substances.

Quick summary

["Neutrophils protect your body from infections and help identify if your immune system may be overactive or underactive."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103422-2
Short code
XR port Neck 1V
Synonyms
XR port Neck 1V
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
22
Ref high
198
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-portable
CPT
82553
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 Might Be Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for infections, blood disorders, or conditions that affect your immune system, such as certain cancers or autoimmune diseases. It can also help monitor treatments for conditions like leukemia or other blood-related illnesses.

What to Expect Before the Test

You won’t need any special preparation. This test is usually done by taking a simple blood sample from a vein in your arm. It’s quick and typically painless.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a standard range of healthy values. Low neutrophil counts may indicate infections, bone marrow disorders, or certain medications. High counts might suggest infections, inflammation, or other immune responses.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor patients with chronic conditions like cancer, autoimmune diseases, or those undergoing chemotherapy, which can affect neutrophil levels.

Reference range

Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)

Frequently asked questions

What causes low neutrophil counts?
Low neutrophil counts can result from infections, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or conditions affecting bone marrow production of blood cells.
What causes high neutrophil counts?
High neutrophil counts often appear during infections, inflammation, or stress responses. They can also occur with certain cancers or blood disorders.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition and treatment plan. Your provider will determine how often this test is needed based on your specific situation.
  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