Cell Count, Serous Fluid
Use
Evaluate serous fluid for the presence of RBCs (semiquantitative), WBCs, differential, and for physical appearance
Special Instructions
To minimize unnecessary laboratory testing, it is important to have a clear differential diagnosis in mind. Gross examination can play a vital role in determining the pathogenesis of the effusion. Results should always be correlated with clinical findings and any other ancillary studies to determine an accurate diagnosis.
Limitations
Total leukocyte counts are of limited value in the differential diagnosis of pleural and pericardial effusions. For completely clotted serous fluid specimens, actual cell counts will not be performed. Routine cytological evaluations would be indicated to confirm or rule out suspected neoplastic or tumor cells. The total leukocyte count may be useful in distinguishing between peritoneal transudates from spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6824-7
- 9335-1
- 55793-4
- 23860-0
- 12238-2
- 13941-0
- 12230-9
- 12209-3
- 35477-9
- 20999-9
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
1 to 2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Follow standard collection procedures.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C; stable 48 hours.
Causes for Rejection
Room temperature storage; frozen specimen; improperly labeled specimen; quantity not sufficient for analysis; gel-barrier tube
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Unstable |
| Refrigerated | 2 days (48 hours) |
| Frozen | Unstable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant