Neutrophil Count

Neutrophil count (NC) is a type of blood test that measures the amount of neutrophils in the blood. Neutrophils are a special type of white blood cells (WBCs) that are involved in the fight against infection. The count therefore serves to determine the total number of WBCs that are neutrophils. Neutrophils numbers can be low or high, two conditions that are caused by different factors that will be discussed in this article.

WHY TO HAVE THE TESTS

Laboratory tests are usually done for regular screening, when a disease is suspected or to determine whether a disease is worsening or improving. This count will help in monitoring some heath conditions that may arise as a result of a low or high count.

CALCULATION OF NEUTROPHIL COUNT

The count is not measured directly. Instead, it is determined by multiplying the total WBC count by the percentage of neutrophils present in the differential WBC-count. The percentage of neutrophils consists of both segmented (mature neutrophils) and bands (neutrophils that are almost mature).

NEUTROPHIL COUNT FORMULA

NC = [(% segmented neutrophils + Bands) + (WBC)] / 100.

Normal NC should range from between 1.5 to around 8.0 (between 1500-8000 mm3).

LOW NC COUNT

When the count is less than 500 then it is considered low, a condition known as neutropenia.

The condition is caused by the following:

Once the results from a neutrophil count have indicated that the number of neutrophils is low.

The following remedies can help reverse the situation:

HIGH NC

The condition occurs when the Neutrophil Count raises above 8,000.

CAUSES

A low or high number of neutrophils can pose some health challenges. A neutrophil count will indicate the actual number of neutrophils present in the body. This will help doctors in monitoring such health challenges and help identify those at risks of developing such challenges. Have your count today!