🩸 Hematology

Neutrophil: What It Means for Your Health

Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell and serve as the first line of defense against bacterial and fungal infections. They make up 40-70% of all white blood cells. The neutrophil percentage (or absolute count) is part of the WBC differential and helps identify the type of infection or inflammation present.

Full Name
Neutrophil Percentage
Normal Range
40–70 %
Also Known As
Neutrophil %, NEU, Segmented Neutrophils

Reference Range

LowNormal: 40–70 %High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.

What Is Neutrophil?

Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell and serve as the first line of defense against bacterial and fungal infections. They make up 40-70% of all white blood cells. The neutrophil percentage (or absolute count) is part of the WBC differential and helps identify the type of infection or inflammation present.

Commonly included in:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)WBC Differential

What Does High Neutrophil Mean?

Above 70 %

Elevated neutrophils (neutrophilia) commonly indicate bacterial infection, acute inflammation, tissue damage (burns, heart attack), physical or emotional stress, smoking, or steroid use. Very high levels can suggest serious bacterial infection or, rarely, chronic myelogenous leukemia.

What Does Low Neutrophil Mean?

Below 40 %

Low neutrophils (neutropenia) increase the risk of bacterial and fungal infections. Causes include viral infections, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, autoimmune disorders, bone marrow disorders, and certain medications. Severe neutropenia (below 500 cells/uL) is a medical emergency.

Related Biomarkers in Hematology

Hemoglobin
Oxygen-carrying protein found inside red blood cells.
Range: 12–17.5 g/dL
Hematocrit
Percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells.
Range: 36–50 %
WBC
Total white blood cell count measuring immune system activity.
Range: 4.5–11 10^3/uL
RBC
Total number of red blood cells in your blood.
Range: 4–5.5 10^6/uL
Platelet
Blood cells responsible for clotting and wound healing.
Range: 150–400 10^3/uL
MCV
Average size of your red blood cells.
Range: 80–100 fL

Track Your Neutrophil Over Time

Upload your blood test results to Hemoly and see how your Neutrophil levels change over time. Get trend analysis, educational insights, and a personal health timeline.

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Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.