About Neutrophils
Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell and are the first line of defense against infections. They are a crucial part of the immune system and help the body fight off bacterial and fungal infections through processes such as phagocytosis, degranulation, and the generation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs).
Reference Values
Optimal Range
Not specified
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate an infection, inflammation, or acute stress response, and could also be associated with more severe conditions such as leukemia.
Low
Low levels may be associated with an increased risk for infections and could indicate diseases affecting bone marrow production or complications from chemotherapy.
Symptoms
High
May include fever, frequent infections, and persistent fatigue.
Low
Can include increased susceptibility to illness, unexplained bruising, and chronic inflammation.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- Kolaczkowska, E., & Kubes, P. (2013). Neutrophil recruitment and function in health and inflammation. *Nature Reviews Immunology*, 13(3), 159–175.
- Rosales, C. (2018). Neutrophil: A Cell with Many Roles in Inflammation or Several Cell Types? *Frontiers in Physiology*, 9, 113.
- Nauseef, W. M., & Borregaard, N. (2014). Neutrophils at work. *Nature Immunology*, 15(7), 602–611.
- Mantovani, A., Cassatella, M. A., Costantini, C., & Jaillon, S. (2011). Neutrophils in the activation and regulation of innate and adaptive immunity. *Nature Reviews Immunology*, 11(8), 519–531.
- Mayadas, T. N., Cullere, X., & Lowell, C. A. (2014). Neutrophil functions and signaling: Lessons from transgenic and knockout mice. *Genes & Development*, 28(19), 2205–2227.