What it measures
Monocytes are white blood cells that move from the blood into the tissues, where they mature into macrophages that swallow bacteria and dead cells. The count is part of the white cell breakdown (the differential) in a full blood count.
Why people test it
- Reported with a full blood count that includes the white cell breakdown.
- Can rise during recovery from an infection and in some long-term inflammatory conditions.
- A count that stays raised is looked into alongside the rest of the blood count.
Typical range
Ranges vary by lab, method and analyser, and your report shows the lab's own range.
Finger-prick or vein?
A vein sample is usually advised. Blood from a finger prick can clot or break up (haemolyse) in the tube, which upsets blood-count results.