Cell Count & Differential, BAL
General Information
Lab Name
Cell Count and Diff, BAL
Lab Code
BALCT
Description
Indicate if order of T-Cell Subtyping should be performed when BAL Lymphocytes are >10%. Result Yes/No to question at request entry. If YES and BAL Lymphocytes are >10%, then T Cell Subsets, BAL [BALTCS] will be ordered with an additional charge.
Components
| Code | Name |
|---|---|
| BALDES | BAL Gross Appearance |
| BALVOL | BAL Volume |
| BLRBC | BAL RBC |
| BLNUCC | BAL Nucleated Cells |
| ANCFL | Absolute Neutrophil Count, Fluid |
| BALNEU | BAL Neutrophils |
| BALLYM | BAL Lymphocytes |
| BALMAC | BAL Macrophages |
| BALEOS | BAL Eosinophils |
| BALBAS | BAL Basophils |
| BALEPC | BAL Epithelial Cells |
| BALOTH | BAL Other |
| BDFCNT | No. BAL Cells Counted for Diff |
| BALCM1 | BAL Comment 1 |
| BALCOM | BAL Comment |
| BALT | Reflex T cells if Indicated? |
Interpretation
Method
Cell Counts are automated or manual, Differential is manual.
Reference Range
See individual components
Ordering & Collection
Specimen Type
Collection
BRONCHO-ALVEOLAR LAVAGE FLUID
Handling Instructions
Samples acceptable up to 24 hours of collection but optimal results achieved if sample sent to lab within 3 hours of collection on ice.Samples submitted after 24 hours will be evaluated for quality using appropriate internal controls and the results qualified appropriately.
Quantity
requested: 7-10 mL BAL
minimum: 1 mL BAL (We will accept a 1 mL sample but a minimum of 5 mL is recommended for diagnostic accuracy)
Processing
Login and forward sample to Hematology. HMC Instructions: SPS staff will login requests from 11:30 pm-07:00 am. Refer to SPS processing instructions on WIKI for more details. Page Chemistry float tech to notify. Micro will log ALL other times and send sample to Hematology for testing.
Performance
LIS Dept Code
Hematology (H)
Performing Location(s)
Frequency
Available STAT?
Yes