Neutrophils %
The share of white blood cells that are neutrophils, the first responders to bacterial infection.
| Typical reference range | 40–74 % |
Ranges vary by laboratory, method, age and sex: always use the range printed on your own report. Why labs differ.
What it measures
Neutrophils are the most abundant white cells, engulfing and killing bacteria and fungi. The percentage describes what fraction of the total WBC count they represent.
Why it matters
The percentage gives context for the white cell mix, but the absolute neutrophil count is more clinically meaningful because a percentage can look abnormal simply because another cell type changed.
What a high result can mean
A high percentage occurs with bacterial infection, inflammation, stress, corticosteroids and smoking, or when lymphocytes are low.
What a low result can mean
A low percentage can occur with viral infections, certain medications, autoimmune disorders, or simply when lymphocytes make up a larger share.
What affects the result
Interpret using the absolute neutrophil count. Labcorp often lists no percentage reference range for this reason.
Unit
Usually reported in %.
Also called on lab reports
Neutrophils, Neut %, Neutrophil %, Segmented Neutrophils, Neutrophils (%), Polys, Segs, Neutrophils, Percent
Related tests: White Blood Cells & Differential
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.