A neutrophil is the most common type of white blood cell, the cells that protect the body against infection by destroying bacteria.
Immature neutrophils are called band cells, while mature neutrophils are called polys. If a person has a low neutrophil count (as tested in a complete blood count), he or she has an increased risk of infection.
Author:Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Medical Review:Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Joseph O'Donnell, MD - Hematology/Oncology
Joseph O'Donnell, MD - Hematology/Oncology
Last Updated: 12/04/2006
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