Absolute Neutrophil Count (Anc), Whole Blood

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC), Whole Blood

What it is

The Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, present in the blood. Neutrophils are the body’s first line of defense against bacterial and fungal infections. The ANC is often calculated from a complete blood count (CBC) with differential.

Uses of the Test

This test helps evaluate immune system health, monitor patients undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy, diagnose bone marrow disorders, and assess infection risk in individuals with low white blood cell counts.

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

Doctors may recommend an ANC test if a person experiences frequent or severe infections, fever without a clear cause, fatigue, weakness, unexplained illness, or symptoms of bone marrow suppression, such as those occurring after chemotherapy. It is also used for autoimmune and hematological disorders.

Causes of Abnormal ANC

High ANC (Neutrophilia): May indicate acute bacterial infections, inflammation (such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease), stress, trauma, surgery, certain leukemias, bone marrow disorders, or corticosteroid use.

Low ANC (Neutropenia): May result from chemotherapy, radiation therapy, bone marrow failure, autoimmune diseases, viral infections (HIV, hepatitis, influenza), certain medications, or severe vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.

Reference Range

Normal ANC levels for adults range from 1,500 to 8,000 cells/µL (1.5 – 8.0 × 10⁹/L). In children, the range is similar but may be slightly higher in newborns. Severity of neutropenia is classified as mild (1,000–1,500/µL), moderate (500–1,000/µL), and severe (<500/µL), which carries a high risk of life-threatening infections.

Risks

The ANC test is a routine blood test with minimal risks. Possible side effects include mild pain, bruising, or bleeding at the puncture site, and rarely dizziness or infection.