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Body Fluid Cell Count
MessagePerformed in the Hematology Laboratory x5475, 76.
Assessed in conjunction with a Body Fluid differential.
Assessed in conjunction with a Body Fluid differential.
Test Code
BFCT
CPT Codes
89051
Includes
Nucleated cell count and description of fluid color and clarity. DOES NOT INCLUDE RBC count.
Preferred Specimen
Specimen types include pleural, ascites, pericardial, peritoneal, bronchealveolar lavage, and serous (joint) fluids.
Wound or drain Fluids are not appropriate for this assay due to marked degeneration of WBC and RBC.
Wound or drain Fluids are not appropriate for this assay due to marked degeneration of WBC and RBC.
Minimum Volume
1 mL fluid
Transport Container
3 mL Purple top (EDTA) preffered to prevent clotting. Red top, sterile screw cap tube, or sterile urine container also acceptable if specimen is not clotted.
Transport Temperature
Room Temperature
Specimen Stability
Up to 4 hours at Room Temperature, or refrigerated at 2-8 degrees C for up to 8 hours.
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Refer to Limitations, below.
Methodology
Manual Chamber count or impedence particle counting on automated cell counter
Setup Schedule
24/7
Limitations
Wound or drain fluids: When the fluid specimen is suboptimal due to the presence of large numbers of broken or degenerated cells, large amounts of debris or material that is not able to be diluted out, or if the sample is highly viscous, THE CELL COUNTS will not be performed. The results will be highly erroneous and unsuitable for clinical use. A smear will be prepared and evaluated if possible.
Reference Range
Appearance: clear, pale yellow
Cell counts:
Synovial fluid: under 200 Nucleated cells per uL
Ascitic fluid: under 300 Nucleated cells per uL
Clinical Significance
Evaluation of the appearance and number of Nucleated cells to rule out infection or malignancy.
