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Which types of white blood cells are included in a white blood cell differential?
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blood analysis
The physical and chemical properties of a sample of blood are examined during blood analysis. The examination of blood is important for the accurate diagnosis of disease.
A white blood cell differential is a laboratory test that measures the percentage of each specific type of white blood cell present in a sample, typically calculated per 100 white cells counted.1
The differential includes the following types of white blood cells:
- Neutrophils: The most numerous type, typically comprising 40 to 60 percent of white blood cells.1
- Lymphocytes: Generally accounting for 20 to 40 percent of the total count.1
- Monocytes: Usually making up 2 to 8 percent of white blood cells.1
- Eosinophils: Present in small percentages.1
- Basophils: Present in small percentages.1
These cells are categorized based on their appearance and staining characteristics under a microscope. While lymphocytes can be further divided into subtypes such as B cells and T cells, and granulocytes include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, the standard differential report focuses on these five primary groups to help clinicians assess immune function and detect conditions like infections, inflammation, or leukemia.21