Cell Ct, Serous Fluid

Test ID: 

704369

CPT code:

89051

Clinical Use:

Evaluate serous fluid for the presence of RBCs (semiquantitative), WBCs, differential, and for physical appearance

Test Information:

To minimize unnecessary laboratory testing it is important to have a clear differential diagnosis in mind. Results of these studies should always be correlated with clinical findings and any other ancillary studies to determine an accurate diagnosis.

Specimen Type:

Serous fluid

Requested Volume: 

1 to 2 mL

Minimum Volume: 

0.5 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)

Container Type: 

Lavender-top (EDTA) tube or green-top (heparin) tube

Collection:

ollow standard collection procedures. Heparin should be added to the syringe used for aspiration of pleural or pericardial fluid to prevent clotting.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C; stable 48 hours.

Stability Requirements:

Temperature             Period
Room temperature   Unstable
Refrigerated 2 days  (48 hours)
Frozen Unstable
Freeze/thaw cycles Unstable

Rejection Criteria

Room temperature storage; frozen specimen; improperly labeled specimen; quantity not sufficient for analysis; gel-barrier tube