Neutrophils · low result
What does a low Neutrophils mean?
Short answer
A low neutrophil count (neutropenia) is commonly benign and inherited — benign ethnic neutropenia is frequent in people of African and Middle Eastern ancestry — or a temporary dip after a viral infection. Medications (chemotherapy, antithyroid drugs, clozapine, some antibiotics and anticonvulsants), autoimmune disease, B12/folate/copper deficiency and marrow disorders are the other causes. Infection risk rises below about 1.0 × 10³/µL.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
When does this result need same-day care?
- Neutrophils below 0.5 × 10³/µL with fever — emergency care
What is the normal range for Neutrophils?
- age 18+: 40.0 – 70.0 %
Can reflect viral infection, certain medications (especially chemotherapy), or autoimmune conditions.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Neutrophils biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low Neutrophils?
- Benign (constitutional/ethnic) neutropenia
- Recent viral infection
- Medications: chemotherapy, methimazole, propylthiouracil, clozapine, some antibiotics and anticonvulsants
- Autoimmune conditions, enlarged spleen
- B12, folate or copper deficiency
- Bone-marrow disorders, HIV
What symptoms go with low Neutrophils?
- Usually none
- Recurrent or severe infections, mouth ulcers when severe
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Absolute neutrophil count on repeat in 2–4 weeks
- B12, folate, HIV test; medication review
- Hematology referral if below ~1.0 × 10³/µL or falling
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: HIV 1/2 Antigen & Antibodies (4th Gen) ($39.99), Folate (Vitamin B9) ($32.99).
How do you recheck Neutrophils?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Wellness Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $89.99 | Yes | 1–3 business days |
| Blood Clotting Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $149.99 | No | 3–7 business days |
| Baseline Anemia Panel | Panel · 5 tests | $74.99 | Yes | 2–4 business days |
| CBC with Differential | Test · 14 biomarkers | $21.99 | No | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
My neutrophils are 1.4 and I feel fine. Should I worry?
Mild neutropenia that is stable and symptom-free is usually benign, especially if it has always been that way. A repeat and a medication check are the usual steps.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.