Neutrophils Normal Range
Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell. They are measured as part of a full blood count (FBC) with a differential, which breaks the white cell count down into its five types: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils.
The normal range
For adults, a typical normal absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is:
- about 2.0 to 7.5 × 10⁹/L (the units used by UK labs), which is
- about 2,000 to 7,500 cells per microlitre (µL) (the units often used in the US).
Each laboratory sets its own reference range, so check the range printed next to your result. Some labs use slightly different limits, such as 2.0 to 7.0, or put the lower limit at 1.5 or 1.8.
Absolute count or percentage?
Some reports also give neutrophils as a percentage of all white cells. The absolute count is the more useful number, because the percentage can look normal or high even when the total number of white cells, and therefore neutrophils, is low.
To convert between the two units, 1.0 × 10⁹/L equals 1,000 per µL.
Normal can be lower for some people
Many people of Black African, African-Caribbean or Middle Eastern ancestry have naturally lower neutrophil counts, often 0.8 to 2.0 × 10⁹/L, because of a common genetic variant (the Duffy-null phenotype). This is healthy and doesn't increase the risk of infection, but it can be flagged as "low" against a standard range.
Counts also vary with age and pregnancy, and after exercise or stress.
If your count is low
A count below about 1.5 × 10⁹/L is called neutropenia:
- Mild: 1.0 – 1.5
- Moderate: 0.5 – 1.0
- Severe: below 0.5
Common causes include a recent viral infection, some medicines (especially chemotherapy) and vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. A mildly low count in someone who feels well is often simply rechecked a few weeks later.
A temperature of 38°C or above with a low neutrophil count, especially after chemotherapy, is a medical emergency. Get urgent medical help.
Read more in low absolute neutrophil count.
If your count is high
A raised neutrophil count is called neutrophilia. It's most often the body's normal response to:
- a bacterial infection
- inflammation, injury or surgery
- physical or emotional stress, or intense exercise
- smoking
- steroid medicines
Less commonly it's caused by a bone marrow disorder. Read more in high absolute neutrophil count.
Understanding your result
A single result slightly outside the range is common and often not significant. Your doctor will look at:
- how far outside the range it is
- whether other blood counts are also abnormal
- previous results, to see if it's new or long-standing
- your symptoms, medicines and medical history
If you're unsure what your result means, ask the doctor or nurse who arranged the test.
For an introduction to these cells, see what is a neutrophil?
References
- Neutropenia (Guidelines). NHS Highland (Right Decisions). Accessed 1 November 2026.
- Neutropenia. NHS Dumfries and Galloway (Right Decisions). Accessed 1 November 2026.
- Neutropenia. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed 1 November 2026.
- Advice leaflet on neutropenia in adult patients. NHS North West. Accessed 1 November 2026.