DIFFERENTIAL LEUCOCYTE COUNT (DLC)
(Flat ₹51 OFF - Sanovra Lab)
Report Time: Same Day (Cutoff 5:30 PM) | Sample: Blood (EDTA) | Test Code: HM097
Your White Blood Cells (Leucocytes) are the soldiers of your immune system. However, they aren't all the same. Your immune system has 5 different types of soldiers, each trained to fight a specific type of enemy like bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
The Differential Leucocyte Count (DLC) test measures the percentage of each of these 5 types of white blood cells in your blood. By seeing which specific type is elevated, your doctor can pinpoint exactly what kind of infection, allergy, or immune reaction is happening inside your body.
The 5 Types of White Blood Cells
A DLC test breaks down your total WBC count into these five categories. Because it measures a percentage, all five types must always add up to 100%.
| WBC Type | Normal Range | What It Fights (Why It Increases) |
|---|---|---|
| Neutrophils | 40% – 80% | Bacterial Infections. They are the "first responders" that rush to the site of an acute infection or physical injury. |
| Lymphocytes | 20% – 40% | Viral Infections. They fight viruses (like the flu, COVID, or measles) and produce antibodies for long-term immunity. |
| Monocytes | 2% – 10% | Chronic Infections & Cleanup. They are the "garbage collectors" that clean up dead cells and fight long-term infections like Tuberculosis. |
| Eosinophils | 1% – 6% | Allergies & Parasites. They spike when you have an allergic reaction (like asthma or hay fever) or a parasitic worm infection. |
| Basophils | 0% – 2% | Severe Allergies. They release histamine during severe allergic or inflammatory reactions. Usually present in very low numbers. |
Why is this Test Performed?
Your doctor will likely order a DLC test if you are showing symptoms such as:
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➤Fever and Body Aches: To determine if your illness requires antibiotics (bacterial) or just rest (viral).
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➤Chronic Fatigue or Weight Loss: To screen for autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammation, or blood disorders like Leukemia.
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➤Severe Allergies: To monitor asthma flare-ups or suspected parasitic infections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, but it is usually included within a CBC. A CBC checks everything (Red blood cells, Hemoglobin, Platelets, and Total WBCs). The DLC specifically looks only at the different types of White Blood Cells.
No, fasting is not required for a Differential Leucocyte Count. You can eat and drink normally before your blood draw.
Because DLC is a percentage that adds up to 100%, if one goes up, another must go down. High lymphocytes with low neutrophils is a classic sign of a viral infection (like a common cold or flu) rather than a bacterial one.
Understand Your Immune System
Find out exactly what your body is fighting. Book your DLC Test today at Sanovra Lab.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a qualified Doctor.