What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to establish a reference range for Duffy-null-associated absolute neutrophil count.

February 22, 2026

Duffy-null-associated absolute neutrophil count (DANC): an audit from south-western Sydney evaluating the neutrophil lower reference range for patients with DANC

Key Points

The aim is to establish a reference range for Duffy-null-associated absolute neutrophil count.
Conducted an audit in south-western Sydney.
Evaluated the neutrophil lower reference range for patients with DANC.
Found frequent misinterpretation of DANC as pathological neutropenia.
Identified potential negative impacts on health economics and equity.

Abstract

Background: Duffy-null red blood cell phenotype (Fya-b-) results from a polymorphism in ACKR1 causing loss of Duffy expression with highest prevalence in individuals of African and Middle Eastern ancestry. Duffy-null-associated absolute neutrophil count (DANC) is frequently misinterpreted as pathological neutropenia, potentially leading to negative impacts on health economics, health equity and patient quality of life. Establishing a reference range for DANC will help mitigate these impacts.

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Duffy-null-associated absolute neutrophil count (DANC): an audit from south-western Sydney evaluating the neutrophil lower reference range for patients with DANC

Key Points

Abstract

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