Presence of bands in the neutrophil differential indicates which condition?

• A. Dehydration
• B. Allergic reaction
• C. Acute infectious process
• D. Chronic anemia

Answer: (C)

Bands indicate a left shift in the neutrophil differential. When the body faces an acute infection or significant inflammation, the bone marrow releases neutrophils early, including immature forms called bands. This rise in bands reflects that the immune system is mounting a rapid, acute response, most often to a bacterial infection. That’s why the presence of bands is most consistent with an acute infectious process.

Dehydration changes fluid status but doesn’t typically cause immature neutrophils to spill into the circulation. An allergic reaction tends to elevate eosinophils rather than promoting a left shift with many bands. Chronic anemia involves red blood cells and doesn’t by itself drive an acute surge of band neutrophils.