Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)

• Test Name: Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) Test
• Test Type: Blood test to measure the number of neutrophils in the blood
• Specimen Required: Blood sample
• Methodology: The test calculates the absolute number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, by multiplying the total white blood cell count by the percentage of neutrophils (both mature and immature forms).
• Purpose: Used to assess the immune system’s ability to fight infections, particularly bacterial and fungal infections.

• Immune System Assessment: Evaluates a patient’s immune function by measuring neutrophils, which are essential for combating infections.
• Cancer Therapy Monitoring: Frequently used in patients undergoing chemotherapy to monitor immune suppression and risk of infection.
• Infection Diagnosis: Helps identify neutropenia (low neutrophil count), which increases susceptibility to infections.
• Bone Marrow Disorders: Assists in diagnosing and monitoring conditions affecting bone marrow function, such as aplastic anaemia or leukaemia.

• White Blood Cell (WBC) Count: The test includes a total white blood cell count, which is used in the ANC calculation.
• Neutrophil Percentage: The percentage of neutrophils (segmented neutrophils and bands) is determined.
• ANC Calculation: The absolute neutrophil count is calculated using the total WBC count and the neutrophil percentage.

• Normal ANC: An ANC of 1,500 to 8,000 cells per microliter indicates a healthy immune response.
• Mild Neutropenia: An ANC between 1,000 and 1,500 cells/µL suggests mild neutropenia, which may increase infection risk.
• Moderate Neutropenia: ANC between 500 and 1,000 cells/µL indicates moderate risk, requiring careful monitoring.
• Severe Neutropenia: ANC below 500 cells/µL indicates severe neutropenia, putting the patient at high risk for infections.

• Turnaround Time: Typically available within a few hours to a day.
• Reporting: Results include the total WBC count, the neutrophil percentage, and the calculated ANC.
• Clinical Significance: Low ANC results may prompt further evaluation for causes of neutropenia, such as chemotherapy, infections, or bone marrow disorders.
• Follow-up: Depending on results, additional diagnostic tests or treatments may be required to address immune deficiencies or infection risks.

Q. What is the Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) Test?
The ANC test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Neutrophils play a crucial role in fighting infections
 

Q. Why is the ANC test important?
This test is important for assessing your immune system, especially if you are undergoing chemotherapy or have a condition that weakens the immune system
 

Q. What are normal ANC levels?
A normal ANC ranges from 1,500 to 8,000 cells per microliter. Levels below this indicate neutropenia, increasing the risk of infection
 

Q. How is the ANC calculated?
The ANC is calculated by multiplying the total white blood cell count by the percentage of neutrophils (both mature and immature forms)
 

Q. What does a low ANC result mean?
A low ANC, or neutropenia, means your immune system is compromised, and you may be at increased risk for bacterial and fungal infections
 

Q. Do I need to prepare for the ANC test?
No special preparation is needed for the ANC test, but it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking as some can affect white blood cell counts
 

Q. What happens if my ANC is low?
If your ANC is low, your doctor may order additional tests to determine the cause and may recommend treatments to help boost your immune function or reduce infection risks