Differential, BAL

Message

Note: Cell counts are not performed on BAL, only differentials.

Test Code

CELL DIFFERENTIAL,BAL

Includes

Segs %, Lymphs %, Monos %, Eos %, Baso %, Plasma cells, Macrophages, Blasts, Tumor cells, bands, Lining cells, Siderophages.

Preferred Specimen

BRONCHIAL ALVEOLAR LAVAGE

Minimum Volume

4 mL

Transport Temperature

Refrigerate

Specimen Stability

All fluids should be tested as soon as possible after collection. Fluids (other than CSF) should be tested within 24 hours of collection. However, because these samples are generally “hardship” samples, they will all be processed regardless of time delay with a disclaimer: “Time delay may affect results”.

Setup Schedule

Daily

Report Available

TAT 1 day

Reference Range

	BAL
Color	Not Performed
Turbidity	Not Performed
Nucleated cell (cell/uL)	Not Performed
RBC (cell/uL)	Not Performed
Neutrophils %	0-3%
Lymphocytes %	0-15%
Macrophages %	80-100%
Eosinophils (%)	0%
Basophils (%)	0%
BAL lining cells (%)	May be present

Note: BAL differential reference ranges were adopted from University of Washington Medical Center. Clinical correlation is recommended for fluid differential results.

Performing Laboratory
Test performed in West Roxbury Hematology Lab
Contact West Roxbury: Nolan Raymond 857-203-5890

Last Updated: February 29, 2024

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.