ANC
The absolute neutrophil count, the real number of white blood cells (WBCs) that are neutrophils. 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).
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absolute neutrophil count; acid neutralization capacity; active noise control [MRI]; adaptive or noise canceler; adult neuronal ceroid [lipofuscinosis]; ancestor [UMLS]; antigen-neutralizing capacity; Army Nurse Corps
Medical dictionary.
2011.