Understanding This Medical Test: What It Is, How It Is Performed, and Why Your Doctor May Recommend It
A laboratory test that measures the number of basophils (a type of white blood cell) in a fetal blood sample, performed manually under a microscope.
{"Basophils are white blood cells that play a role in the immune response","This test counts basophils in fetal blood to assess fetal health","The test is performed manually using microscopic examination","Results help doctors evaluate the fetal blood system","It may be used during high-risk pregnancies or when fetal problems are suspected"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 66142-1
- Short code
- Basophils # Bld Fetus Manual
- Synonyms
- Basophils # Bld Fetus Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test, and what information does it give my doctor about my health and how my body is working?
This test measures the number of basophils in a sample of fetal blood. Basophils are a type of white blood cell (leukocyte) that are part of the body's immune system. They play a role in fighting infections and in allergic reactions. The test is performed manually by examining the blood sample under a microscope and counting the basophils.
How is the test performed, and what can I expect during the procedure, including how long it takes and whether it causes discomfort?
A blood sample is taken from the fetus, usually through procedures like cordocentesis (sampling blood from the umbilical cord) or fetal blood sampling. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory by trained technicians who manually count the basophils under a microscope.
Why might this test be needed, and what symptoms or medical conditions can it help my care team detect, diagnose, or monitor over time?
This test may be ordered during high-risk pregnancies to assess the fetal blood system and overall health. It can help doctors evaluate if the fetus is developing normally or if there are any blood-related disorders. The test may also be used to monitor certain conditions that could affect the fetus.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The basophil count in fetal blood can provide important information about the fetal immune system and blood cell development. Abnormal counts may indicate various conditions including fetal infections, blood disorders, or developmental problems. This test helps healthcare providers assess fetal well-being and make informed decisions about pregnancy management.
Frequently asked questions
Why is checking basophils in fetal blood important?
Is this test safe for the fetus?
What do abnormal results mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
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- 3
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy