Absolute Neutrophil Count
Calculates total neutrophils and grades neutropenia by CTCAE.
When to use
Adults with suspected neutropenia or on myelosuppressive drugs, to quantify total neutrophils.
Pearls and pitfalls
- ANC adds segmented neutrophils and bands before multiplying by the white cell count.
- CTCAE grade 3 starts below 1,000/µL and grade 4 below 500/µL.
- The differential count should come from the same blood count used for white cells.
- Fever in severe neutropenia is an emergency and requires immediate assessment.
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Formula
ANC = white cells (10³/µL) × (neutrophils % + bands %) ÷ 100.
Evidence
Standard laboratory calculation, with neutropenia grades defined by CTCAE to guide management and clinical trials.
References
- National Cancer Institute. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. 2017. https://ctep.cancer.gov/protocoldevelopment/electronic_applications/docs/CTCAE_v5_Quick_Reference_5x7.pdf
Frequently asked questions
What is Absolute Neutrophil Count?
Calculates total neutrophils and grades neutropenia by CTCAE. Adults with suspected neutropenia or on myelosuppressive drugs, to quantify total neutrophils.
How is the result calculated?
ANC = white cells (10³/µL) × (neutrophils % + bands %) ÷ 100.
How should the result be interpreted?
Standard laboratory calculation, with neutropenia grades defined by CTCAE to guide management and clinical trials.
What are the sources?
National Cancer Institute. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. 2017.