The PMN blood test is used to evaluate a person’s health by looking at specific white blood cells called neutrophils. This blood test will take an absolute count of all white blood cells and then determine what percentage of those cells are neutrophils. It is normally ordered as part of a complete blood count, but may be ordered individually under specific circumstances if certain health issues are suspected.
This common test may be ordered as part of an annual physical exam. It is also routinely ordered whenever a blood test is needed as part of the diagnostic process for an unknown illness.
Why Neutrophils Are Important
Neutrophils are one of the first lines of defense that the body has against foreign invaders that can make people sick. Any disruption of the white blood cell creation process can cause a neutrophil disorder, so the signs and symptoms of this health issue are numerous and may be specific to the individual affected.
For a neutrophil to do its job properly and kill off bacteria or fungi, then it must be allowed to mature within the bone marrow. It must be able to travel to the infection when it is active, be able to recognize a valid infection, and then be able to ingest the pathogen so it can be destroyed. If any stage of this process does not function properly, then the affected individual will be more susceptible to infections.
What Do My Test Results Mean?
Test results for the PMN blood test will either be normal, low, or high based on both the total count of neutrophils and the percentage relative to the complete number of white blood cells present. It is possible to have an elevated white blood cell count and still have a normal PMN result.
Low numbers of neutrophils is referred to as neutropenia. This is typically seen in individuals who are suffering from an autoimmune disorder. There may also be a reaction to medication that has been ordered or a dietary deficiency present. People who are undergoing chemotherapy for their cancer will often have neutropenia. Bone marrow damage, a cancer in the bone marrow, or some unknown immune system deficiency may also cause these results.
High numbers of neutrophils is referred to as neutrophilia. The most common reason for this condition is the presence of inflammation somewhere in the body. It can also be caused by an acute bacterial infection, some sort of physical trauma, a burn to the skin, and with certain leukemias. People diagnosed with Cushing syndrome will typically have neutrophilia. What is unique about this test result is that individuals who perform regular strenuous exercises will also have an increased count of these white blood cells.
Here’s What You Need To Know
Neutrophil disorders are uncommon. It is important for newborns and children to have regular neutrophil counts if there is a suspected disorder because the health conditions are more dangerous in younger patients. It can be an inherited problem or can be caused by exposure to certain toxins or drugs. A disorder can also be acquired from something as simple as a viral infection.
If the PMN blood test comes back with abnormal results, the affected area may have a culture ordered for it. This can help medical providers determine what is causing the issue. This may include urine, blood, or sputum cultures to rule out EBV, strep, or chronic inflammation. Biopsies are reserved for severe conditions, such as a bone marrow disorder, and even then it is typically done to confirm a suspected diagnosis only.
Treating a neutrophil disorder typically requires a multidisciplinary setting and the specialized care of numerous specialists. If certain drugs or toxins are causing the issue, then removing those triggers must happen whenever possible. Over time, treatments can help to reverse the symptoms of the disorder that the PMN blood test helped to discover.
Most people are going to have a normal PMN blood test result if it is ordered. In some complete blood counts, it is even considered an optional test. This means some medical providers may order it only when there is a suspected disorder that is directly related to an abnormal neutrophil count or percentage. Antibiotics may be ordered depending on the infection and certain injectable medications may help to restore blood counts.
There may be nothing wrong, but the PMN blood test may still be ordered to confirm this. If you have questions or concerns about this part of the complete blood count in regards to your health, then be sure to discuss them with your doctor before the test is ordered.