Complete Blood Count (CBC)Reported in ×10³/µLNeutrophils (absolute)
The actual number of neutrophils. This is the white-cell count clinicians use when they talk about infection risk.
What it measures
The absolute neutrophil count, often shortened to ANC, is the percent of neutrophils times the total white count. It includes the mature neutrophils reported on the differential. A low ANC is called neutropenia. A high ANC is neutrophilia.
Why it is on the panel
Infection risk tracks the absolute number, not the percentage. Someone can have a “low neutrophil percent” and a perfectly adequate ANC if the total white count is high. The reverse happens too.
How to read it
Use this number, not the percent, to decide whether neutrophils are truly high or low. Then look at immature granulocytes. A high ANC with young granulocytes in the blood often means the marrow is responding to a real stimulus.
When it runs higher
Bacterial infection, inflammation, steroids, smoking, and physiologic stress raise the ANC. Demargination — neutrophils that were stuck to vessel walls jumping into the flowing blood — can raise it within hours.
When it runs lower
Viral infections, some antibiotics and other medicines, autoimmune disease, B12 deficiency, and marrow disorders can lower it. Mild neutropenia is something to repeat and review. Very low counts raise the risk of serious infection and need timely medical advice.
How to use this page
This page explains what the measurement is for. It is educational. Your Healiam report includes the reference interval for your age and sex, and a clinician reads that result with your history, medicines, and the rest of the panel. Talk with a clinician before changing diet, supplements, or treatment because of a number on a report.
Neutrophils (abs)
Neutrophils (abs) is part of the full panel.
No referral or insurance required.
One preventive draw covers this measurement and the rest of the Healiam panel. CLIA-certified results come back in days.