The absolute neutrophil count states how many neutrophils circulate in a volume of blood, calculated from the total white cell count and the differential. Neutrophils are the most numerous leukocytes and the first cells recruited to sites of bacterial infection and acute tissue damage. This figure is the standard measure of how well the body is defended against ordinary bacterial and fungal infection.
No readings for this marker yet.
A raised absolute count most often accompanies bacterial infection, acute inflammation, tissue injury, smoking or corticosteroid use, and it rises briefly under physical and emotional stress. A lowered count points towards reduced marrow production or increased peripheral consumption, and is seen in some viral illnesses, in autoimmune conditions and as a reaction to certain medicines. Depth matters more than the fact of being below range, and a low result is discussed with a doctor and repeated rather than interpreted alone.
The value moves with the time of day, recent exertion and any current infection, so a sample taken during an acute illness reflects that moment rather than a baseline. Some people carry a constitutionally lower count with no impaired defence against infection. It is read alongside the total white cell count and the rest of the differential, especially the lymphocyte count, and it is the figure watched during treatment with metamizole or thiamazole.
Reference ranges are general adult values and depend on lab, assay, age and sex. For orientation, not diagnosis — discuss results with your doctor.