Private White Blood Cell Count & Blood Differential Test

Blood test to analyse the immune system looking at white blood cells 

HCA UK offers a range of specialist blood tests across its network of hospitals, outpatient centres and clinics in London and Manchester.

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HCA UK Booking Line:

020 7079 4344

What is a differential test?

A differential test is a white blood cell analysis to diagnose an illness affecting the immune system.

This test has a number of different uses for diagnostics which includes:

  • A differential test helps to assess your body's ability to respond to and fight infection.
  • A differential test determines the severity of allergic reactions and reactions to medications.
  • The differential test plays an important role in assessing your body's reactions to infections and chemotherapy.
  • The test can also help to identify leukaemia stages.

Need to know

  • What happens during the test? icon plus

    Your consultant will take a blood sample from your arm. They will then take a drop of blood from your sample and smear it onto a glass slide. The smear is stained with a special dye, which helps tell the difference between various types of white blood cells.

    Five types of white blood cells normally appear in the blood. These are called:

    • neutrophils
    • lymphocytes
    • monocytes
    • eosinophils
    • basophils.

    A device counts the number of each type of cell in the sample. The test shows if the number of cells are in proportion with each other, and if there is more or less of one cell type.

  • How to prepare icon plus

    Wear a loose fitting shirt or, ideally, a shirt with short sleeves so your arm is easily accessible for the blood test.

    You may need to avoid eating and/or drinking for up to 12 hours prior to your blood test.

    You may also need to stop certain medications. Speak to your consultant to discuss the details of how best to prepare for your test.

  • After your test icon plus

    There is no recovery time or side-effects associated with this test. You will be able to leave the hospital immediately afterwards and resume with your normal daily routine.

    You will need to have a follow-up appointment with your consultant to discuss the results.

Our locations for a differential test

At HCA UK we provide access to exceptional healthcare services by providing a network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics in London and Manchester.

Book diagnostic tests and scans

Our advisors can help with enquiries about booking a diagnostic scan and can help you book an appointment for a diagnostic test or scan once you have been referred by a GP or consultant.

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020 7079 4344
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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