This is the share of neutrophils among all white blood cells in the sample. It describes the composition of the leukocyte population rather than its size, showing which arm of the immune response currently predominates. Because it is a proportion, it depends on every other cell type counted in the same differential.
No readings for this marker yet.
A higher share most often accompanies bacterial infection, acute inflammation, tissue damage or corticosteroid use, where neutrophils are mobilised in preference to other cells. A lower share is common during viral infections, when lymphocytes make up more of the population, and may also appear where neutrophil production itself is reduced. A percentage can shift simply because another population has changed, so it indicates a direction to look in, not a conclusion, and an unexpected result is taken to a doctor and rechecked.
The proportion varies through the day and after exercise, a heavy meal or acute stress, and it is markedly affected by any illness present at the time of the draw. A normal percentage can accompany an abnormal absolute count and the reverse is also true. It is therefore read together with the total white cell count and the absolute neutrophil and lymphocyte figures, which carry the clinical weight.
Reference ranges are general adult values and depend on lab, assay, age and sex. For orientation, not diagnosis — discuss results with your doctor.