Basophilsnframnmanual
A laboratory test that counts basophils (a type of white blood cell) in the amniotic fluid surrounding your baby during pregnancy.
{"The test checks for white blood cells called basophils in the amniotic fluid","It helps doctors assess fetal health and detect potential infections or inflammation","A small sample of amniotic fluid is collected and examined under a microscope","Results can indicate if the baby's lungs are mature enough for birth","The test is typically performed in the later stages of pregnancy"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38184-8
- Short code
- BASOLKAF
- Synonyms
- Basophils NFr Amn Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile, screw-cap, leak-proof polypropylene tube; sterile glass container acceptable
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Critical range
- — – 10 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- 15–55 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 88108
- SNOMED
- 409480009
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL of amniotic fluid (minimum 3 mL required for manual cell count)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 1 hour; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 4 hours; Do not freeze. Process promptly to prevent cell degeneration.
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 2–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Basophils/Leukocytes in Amniotic fluid test is a laboratory examination that counts the number of basophils (a type of white blood cell) in the amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is the protective liquid that surrounds your growing baby in the uterus during pregnancy. This test is performed manually by trained laboratory technicians who examine the fluid sample under a microscope.
How is the test performed?
A sample of amniotic fluid is collected through a procedure called amniocentesis, where a thin needle is inserted through the abdomen into the uterus to withdraw a small amount of fluid. This sample is then sent to the laboratory, where technicians stain the fluid and count the basophils and other white blood cells under a microscope. The results are reported as a count or percentage of white blood cells present.
Why might I need this test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate fetal lung maturity, detect signs of infection or inflammation in the amniotic cavity, or assess overall fetal well-being. It may be recommended if there are concerns about preterm labor, suspected intrauterine infection, or when determining the best timing for delivery.
Reference range
Basophils are typically absent or rarely present (<1%) in normal amniotic fluid. Leukocyte counts in normal amniotic fluid are generally low (<100 cells/μL). Elevated basophil or leukocyte counts may indicate intra-amniotic infection or inflammation.N/A
Amniocentesis performed under sterile conditions by qualified obstetrician. Patient should be informed of procedure risks including infection, membrane rupture, and fetal loss.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the amniocentesis procedure safe?
How long does it take to get results?
What do abnormal results mean?
Does this test tell me about my baby's lung maturity?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
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