DLC (DIFFERENTIAL LEUCOCYTE COUNT), AUTOMATED

The DLC (Differential Leucocyte Count), Automated Test, is a test that will measure the number of five white blood cells such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils as well as the percentage of the five white blood cells. White blood cells are necessary for your body's immune system to fight infection and foreign invaders. This type of test will help to identify or rule out infection, inflammation, or allergy, and will help to indicate specific blood disorders, including anemia and leukemia and other issues.

Process

• A small sample of blood will be taken from a vein located in your arm.
• The sample will be scanned in a hematology analyzer that is automated.
• The analyzer will determine the percentage and the absolute count of each sample type of white blood cell.

When to Get Tested

This test is recommended if your medical provider thinks you might have an infection, inflammation, an immune issue, or recently had an abnormal result from a CBC test. This test is also useful if you are presenting symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and frequent infections. 

Sample Type

A blood sample of 2–5 ml will be taken via venipuncture (or the draw, which is the act of drawing blood from a vein in the arm).

Test Preparation

There is no fasting or special preparation for this test. Please tell your doctor about any medicines you have taken, or if you are feeling ill at the time of the test.

Understanding Your Results

The test shows how many of each type of different white blood cells are in your sample. An abnormal number of these cells may mean you have an infection, immune condition, or blood disease, requiring further testing or intervention. Your doctor will need to interpret the results, in combination with your current symptoms and other test results, to determine the appropriate next steps.