Determination of Leukocyte Formula (Differential Leucocyte Count), Differential Blood Analysis (Differential Blood Count)

Blood plays an important role in the life of the body, as it ensures the transport of oxygen and nutrients to all tissues and organs. Blood contains red and white cells, as well as platelets. White blood cells, or leukocytes, perform a protective function in the body, participating in the fight against infections and other harmful influences.

A differential blood test, or determination of the leukocyte formula, allows you to determine the ratio of different types of leukocytes present in the blood. Typically, this is done by counting 100 white blood cells and determining their number under a microscope or using a special electronic device.

The results obtained are expressed as a percentage relative to the total number of leukocytes and their absolute content per liter of blood. This information is important for diagnosing the disease. Depending on the ratio of different types of leukocytes, one can make an assumption about the nature of the disease.

For example, an increase in neutrophils may indicate a bacterial infection, while an increase in lymphocytes may indicate a viral infection or other immune system diseases. Eosinophils, in turn, can be elevated during allergic reactions or parasitic infections.

A differential blood test is an important diagnostic method that helps doctors determine the nature of the disease and choose the most effective treatment method. In addition, this analysis can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and assess the dynamics of the disease.

In conclusion, the determination of the leukocyte formula, or differential blood test, is an important method for diagnosing various diseases. The results obtained make it possible to determine the ratio of different types of leukocytes and draw a conclusion about the nature of the disease. This analysis is necessary to select the most effective treatment method and monitor the effectiveness of therapy.



Leukocytes are white blood cells that protect our body from infections and other diseases. They are formed in the bone marrow and then migrate into the blood. When white blood cells enter the body, they begin to perform their functions, such as destroying bacteria and viruses, repairing damaged tissue and regulating the immune system.

However, in order to determine which types of leukocytes are present in the blood, a leukocyte formula or differential blood test is used. This is a very important test that allows the doctor to obtain information about the patient’s immune status and make a diagnosis.

To determine the leukocyte formula, a microscope or special electronic equipment is used. Usually 100 leukocytes are counted and their ratio is determined. The results obtained can be expressed both as a percentage of the total number of leukocytes and in absolute values ​​per liter of blood.

A differential blood test may be useful in the following cases:

  1. When diagnosing infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, pneumonia and others. The analysis allows you to determine what type of leukocytes is increased and how much.

  2. In the treatment of infectious diseases.



What is Differential Leucocyte count and differential blood count?

Differential blood count (DC) is a blood test that helps determine the composition of white blood cells. It is used to diagnose and treat various diseases. DC is a measurement of the number of different types of white blood cells present in a sample of blood taken. Below are the main characteristics of DC:

1. Sample size: Usually 1-2 ml of blood taken from the cubital vein or artery is required. 2. Preparation time: Different laboratories use different methods to prepare a blood sample before analysis, for example, centrifugation, the time required for preparation can vary from 5 to 30 minutes. 3. Fluorescence: Fluorescence or light microscopy can be used to count different types of white blood cells. Fluorescence allows the use of powerful lighting, which significantly increases the accuracy of calculations. 4. Computerized counting: More modern laboratories use computer systems to count white blood cells. These systems allow fast and accurate analysis, they are reliable and accurate. 5. Qualitative and quantitative information: DC provides both qualitative information (eg, white blood cell type) and quantitative information. For example, if you are preparing a new formula for a dish, then you can check which ingredients are needed for each type of dish.