| Equations: (1) Segs and bands reported as a percentage:
 WBC * ((segs / 100) + (bands / 100))(2) Segs and bands reported in total numbers:
 WBC * (segs + bands)
 Neutrophils (aka polymorphonuclear cells, PMNs, granulocytes, segmented neutrophils,  or segs) fight against infection and represent a subset of the white blood count. Neutropenia by definition is an ANC below 1800/mm3 (some sources use a lower value). Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 1000-1800:Most patients will be given chemotherapy in this range.
 Risk of infection is considered low.
 Mild neutropenia – Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 500-1000:Carries with it a moderate risk of infection.
 Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of less than 500: Severe neutropenia – high risk of infection. Remember that a reduced WBC is known as leukopenia.
 The WBC consists of the following (differential):Lymphocytes: 20-40%
 Neutrophils: 50-60%
 Basophils: 0.5-2%
 Eosinophils: 1-4%
 Monocytes: 2-9% (average: 4%).
 ANC = Total WBC x (% “Segs” + % “Bands”)
 Equivalent to: WBC x ((Segs/100) + (Bands/100))
 The ANC refers to the total number of neutrophil granulocytes present in the blood. Normal value: ≥ 1500 cells/mm3.Mild neutropenia: ≥1000 – <1500/mm3.
 Moderate neutropenia: ≥500 – <1000/mm3.
 Severe neutropenia: < 500/mm3.
 Reference:Ayalew Tefferi, MD, ed. Primary Hematology. Totowa, NJ: Humana Press, 2001
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