Blood differential: types of white blood cells

Explanation

A blood differential measures the different types of white blood cells in a blood sample. These cells are part of the immune system, which helps defend the body against infection. The differential adds detail to the total white blood cell count.

What is the difference between a percentage and an absolute count?

A percentage describes how large a share of all white blood cells belongs to one type. An absolute count describes how many cells of that type are present in a given volume of blood.

If one cell type increases, the percentage of another can fall even if its absolute count has not fallen. Looking at the percentages, absolute counts and total white cell count together helps avoid this misunderstanding.

Does an abnormal result identify the cause?

No. Changes can have several explanations, including infections, medicines and other conditions. A clinician considers the laboratory's reference ranges, symptoms, medical history and other blood results. Further testing may be needed; a single high or low cell proportion is not a diagnosis.

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