Basophilsnfrdfbronchmanual
This test measures the percentage of basophils (a type of white blood cell) in a sample from the airways to help evaluate lung conditions.
{"Basophils are white blood cells that play a role in allergic reactions and inflammation","This test examines cells from bronchial secretions to check for lung conditions","Higher basophil levels may indicate allergies, asthma, or infections","The test is performed by examining the sample under a microscope","Results help doctors diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71595-3
- Short code
- BASBRON
- Synonyms
- Basophils NFr.DF Bronch Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof specimen container; cytology container with appropriate fixative if required by laboratory protocol
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 88108
- SNOMED
- 443980004
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1-2 mL of bronchial specimen; preferably 5-10 mL for adequate cell yield
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 1-2 hours of collection at room temperature. If delayed, refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours. Do not freeze.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test measures the proportion of basophils (a type of white blood cell) relative to other leukocytes in a bronchial specimen. A bronchial specimen is collected from the airways, usually through bronchoscopy or by collecting sputum (mucus from the lungs). The sample is then examined manually under a microscope by a lab technician who counts and identifies different types of cells.
Why is it performed?
Doctors order this test to evaluate lung and airway conditions. Basophils are involved in allergic responses and inflammation. When their numbers are elevated in the bronchial specimen, it may indicate allergic conditions, asthma, bronchitis, or other inflammatory lung diseases. The test helps doctors understand the nature of respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
How is the sample collected?
The sample is typically collected through bronchoscopy, where a thin tube with a camera is inserted through the nose or mouth into the airways. Alternatively, a sputum sample may be collected by coughing deeply to bring up mucus from the lungs. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where a technician examines it under a microscope to determine the basophil percentage.
Reference range
Basophils are typically rare or absent in normal bronchial specimens; expected reference range is less than 1% of total leukocytes. Values should be interpreted in conjunction with total leukocyte count and clinical context.N/A
No fasting required. Specimen collected during bronchoscopy procedure (bronchial washing, brushing, or bronchoalveolar lavage) by qualified healthcare professional. Patient may require pre-procedure fasting per bronchoscopy protocol (typically 6-8 hours for sedation).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Is this test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What do abnormal results mean?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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