Skip to main content
Medical information Clinical review pending

Haematology Testing

Absolute Neutrophil Count Test

The Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infection. This test helps assess immune health, detect infections, and monitor chemotherapy.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

Ask a question
Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
3 mL (minimum 1 mL) of whole blood collected in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube.
Results
Approximately one week. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
Test priceKSh 374

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Absolute Neutrophil Count Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

+254

Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Monitoring patients undergoing chemotherapy
  • ✓Evaluating risk of infection
  • ✓Diagnosing neutropenia
  • ✓Assessing immune status
  • ✓Investigating unexplained fever or infection symptoms
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

The Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) test is used to assess a patient's risk of infection by measuring the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell critical for fighting bacteria and fungi. It is particularly useful for monitoring patients undergoing chemotherapy, those with neutropenia (low neutrophil count), or individuals suspected of having an infection.
The Absolute Neutrophil Count Test is a vital diagnostic tool used to measure the number of neutrophils, a specific type of white blood cell, in your bloodstream. Neutrophils are essential components of your immune system, playing a key role in defending your body against bacterial and fungal infections.

This test quantifies the absolute number of neutrophils present in a given volume of blood. It provides valuable information about your body's ability to fight off infections and can help identify individuals who may be at higher risk for developing infections, particularly those with weakened immune systems.

Understanding your neutrophil count is important for managing various health conditions. It is commonly used to monitor patients undergoing chemotherapy, as these treatments can often lower white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infection. The test can also be helpful in diagnosing certain infections or inflammatory conditions.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test.
Sample3 mL (minimum 1 mL) of whole blood collected in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube.
MethodologyAutomated haematology analyser.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
The ANC test measures the quantity of neutrophils but does not assess their function. Results can be influenced by certain medications or underlying conditions. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that are a crucial part of your immune system. They help your body fight off infections, particularly bacterial and fungal ones.
The ANC test helps determine your risk of developing an infection. Low levels can indicate a weakened immune system, while high levels might suggest an ongoing infection or inflammation.
This test is often recommended for people undergoing chemotherapy, those with symptoms of infection, or individuals with conditions affecting their white blood cell counts.
A blood sample is drawn from your arm using a needle and collected in a specific type of tube (Lavender Top/EDTA).
No special preparation, such as fasting, is required for the Absolute Neutrophil Count test.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

Keep exploring

Related tests

View all tests →
Chat on WhatsApp