Absolute Monocyte Count

• Test Name: Absolute Monocyte Count Test
• Test Type: Hematological analysis
• Specimen Required: Blood sample collected via venipuncture
• Methodology: Part of a Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential; measures of the absolute number of monocytes per microliter of blood.
• Purpose: Used to assess immune system function and detect abnormal increases or decreases in monocyte levels.

• Diagnosis: Helps in diagnosing infections, autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, and certain cancers, particularly leukaemias and lymphomas.
• Monitoring: Monitors immune response in infections, inflammatory diseases, and recovery from certain illnesses.
• Assessment: Assesses bone marrow function and the body’s response to chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatments.

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Provides total white blood cell (WBC) count and differentiation of white cells.
• Monocyte Count: The absolute count of monocytes (a type of white blood cell) is provided, along with percentages of monocytes within the total WBC.
• Automated Hematology Analyzer: Usually, the count is performed using an automated analyzer that quantifies the cells in the sample.

• Increased Monocyte Count (Monocytosis): Can indicate chronic infections (such as tuberculosis), autoimmune diseases, inflammatory conditions, or certain blood cancers like leukaemia.
• Decreased Monocyte Count (Monocytopenia): This can be seen in conditions like bone marrow suppression, HIV infection, or during chemotherapy.
• Normal Monocyte Levels: Normal levels suggest a well-functioning immune system without active infection or inflammation.

• Turnaround Time: Typically available within a few hours to a day.
• Reference Range: The normal range for adults is usually between 200-950 cells per microliter of blood, though ranges may vary slightly by laboratory.
• Clinical Action: Results may prompt further investigation if monocyte levels are abnormal, leading to additional tests such as bone marrow biopsy or specific infection tests.

Q. What is the Absolute Monocyte Count Test?
It measures the exact number of monocytes, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Monocytes play a role in immune defence against infections
 

Q. Why would a doctor order this test?
The test helps diagnose infections, immune system disorders, blood cancers, and inflammatory conditions, and it monitors overall immune health
 

Q. How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn and analyzed using an automated haematology analyzer to determine the absolute number of monocytes
 

Q. What does a high monocyte count mean?
A high count (monocytosis) can indicate chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or blood cancers like leukaemia
 

Q. What does a low monocyte count mean?
A low count (monocytopenia) may suggest bone marrow issues, immunodeficiency, or side effects from treatments like chemotherapy
 

Q. Do I need to fast before the test?
No fasting is required for this test, though you should inform your healthcare provider of any medications that could affect your white blood cell count
 

Q. What happens if my monocyte levels are abnormal?
If your levels are too high or too low, your doctor may perform additional tests to determine the cause and recommend treatment or further investigation