Neutrophils (abs.)
Neutrophils are the most numerous white blood cell subtype and the first line of defense against bacteria and fungi. The absolute count tells how many are actually circulating.
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Talk to a doctor | below 1.5 10^9/L | Low neutrophils — seek advice. |
| Good | 1.5 – 7.5 10^9/L | Within the reference range. |
| Talk to a doctor | 7.5 10^9/L and above | Elevated — possible infection/inflammation; interpret in context. |
Why it matters
Elevated often with a bacterial infection/inflammation.
If it’s low
Low neutrophils (neutropenia) increase the risk of bacterial infections; marked neutropenia is an emergency.
If it’s high
Elevated neutrophils often mean a bacterial infection, inflammation or stress/exertion. A mild rise is common and harmless.
What to do
Read it with the full blood count and how you feel. Markedly low neutrophils with a fever are an EMERGENCY (risk of severe infection).
Read together with
Leukocytes (WBC) · Lymphocytes (abs.) · hs-CRP
Part of the guide: Complete blood count (CBC) →
Articles about this marker
- High or low lymphocytes: what your blood test meansComplete blood count (CBC)
- High or low neutrophils: what your blood test meansComplete blood count (CBC)
- High or low white blood cell count (WBC): what it meansComplete blood count (CBC)
- White blood cell differential: what each type of white cell meansComplete blood count (CBC)
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
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