Absolute Neutrophils

Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) measures the total number of neutrophils per volume of blood (WBC count x Neutrophil %). It provides a direct measure of the body's primary defense against bacterial infections. Low ANC (neutropenia, especially <1000 or <500 cells/uL) significantly increases infection risk, often seen after chemotherapy or with certain disorders. High ANC (neutrophilia) typically indicates infection or inflammation.