ANC refers to the count of white blood cells (WBCs) that are neutrophils. This number isn't measured directly; instead, it's calculated by multiplying the WBC count by the percentage of neutrophils found in the differential WBC count. Neutrophils include both segmented (fully mature) and band (nearly mature) neutrophils. The typical ANC range is 1.5 to 8.0 (or 1,500 to 8,000 cells/mm³).Here's an example of how to calculate ANC:- WBC count: 6,000 cells/mm³- Segmented neutrophils: 30% of WBCs- Band neutrophils: 3% of WBCs- Total neutrophils (segs + bands): 33% of WBCs- ANC: 33% of 6,000 = 2,000 cells/mm³- An ANC of 2,000 cells/mm³ is conventionally expressed as 2.0- Normal ANC range: 1.5 to 8.0 (or 1,500 to 8,000 cells/mm³)- Interpretation: This is considered normal.Neutrophils are crucial for defending against infections. A lack or deficiency of neutrophils, known as neutropenia, increases susceptibility to infections. After chemotherapy, radiation, or a bone marrow transplant, the ANC typically decreases and then gradually increases as the body begins to recover and produce new blood cells.Clinically, an ANC of 1.5 or higher is considered normal, a "safe" ANC is between 500 and 1,500, and a low ANC is below 500. A safe ANC indicates that no activity restrictions are necessary for the patient based on their ANC.
