Absolute neutrophil count: The real number of white blood cells (WBCs) that are neutrophils . The absolute neutrophil count is commonly called the ANC.

The ANC is not measured directly. It is derived by multiplying the WBC count times the percent of neutrophils in the differential WBC count. The percent of neutrophils consists of the segmented (fully mature) neutrophils) + the bands (almost mature neutrophils). The normal range for the ANC = 1.5 to 8.0 (1,500 to 8,000/mm3).

Sample calculation of the ANC:
WBC count: 6,000 cells/mm3 of blood
Segs: 30% of the WBCs
Bands: 3% of the WBCs
Neutrophils (segs + bands): 33% of the WBCs
ANC: 33% X 6,000 = 2,000/mm3
ANC of 2,000/mm3, by convention = 2.0
Normal range: 1.5 to 8.0 (1,500 to 8,000/mm3)
Interpretation: Normal

Neutrophils are key components in the system of defense against infection . An absence or scarcity of neutrophils (a condition called neutropenia ) makes a person vulnerable to infection . After chemotherapy, radiation, or a blood or marrow transplant, the ANC is usually depressed and then slowly rises, reflecting the fact that the bone marrow is recovering and new blood cells are beginning to grow and mature.

In practical clinical terms, a normal ANC is 1.5 or higher; a "safe" ANC is 500-1500; a low ANC is less than 500. A safe ANC means that the patient's activities do not need to be restricted (on the basis of the ANC).

How to Order  |  Price List  |  Refill Orders
Home  |  About Us  |  Contact Us  |  FAQ

Buy cheap canadian prescriptions from a Canadian Internet Pharmacy leader. cheap online pharmacy canadian pharmacy prescription drugs online discount medicine pharmacies online mail order prescription medication canadian online pharmacy search for online drugs canada pharmacies discount canadian medication drugstore Plavix Fosamax Lipitor Celebrex Actonel Flomax Glucophage Premarin Prevacid Evista .