Basophilsnfrdffldmanual
This test measures the proportion of basophils (a type of white blood cell) relative to total white blood cells in body fluid samples.
{"Basophils are rare white blood cells that play a role in allergic reactions and inflammation","This test helps doctors analyze fluid from body cavities (like chest or abdomen)","Abnormal results may indicate infection, inflammation, allergic reactions, or certain cancers","The test is performed by manually examining fluid samples under a microscope","Results are reported as a percentage of basophils among all white blood cells"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71647-2
- Short code
- BASOCBF
- Synonyms
- Basophils NFr.DF Fld Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof collection container (e.g., sterile urine cup, sterile screw-cap tube, EDTA tube for some fluid types)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 89051
- SNOMED
- 396787009
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1-2 mL of body fluid; ideal volume 3-5 mL depending on fluid type
- Stability
- Room temperature: 1-2 hours for most body fluids; refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 4 hours; specimens should be analyzed as soon as possible to prevent cell deterioration
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 2–4 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Basophils/Leukocytes test measures the percentage of basophils in relation to the total number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in a body fluid sample. Basophils are a rare type of white blood cell that contain histamine and play important roles in allergic responses, inflammation, and the body's immune defense. This test is performed using manual microscopic examination of fluid samples collected from various body cavities, such as pleural fluid (chest), peritoneal fluid (abdomen), or cerebrospinal fluid.
During the test, a laboratory technician examines the fluid sample under a microscope and counts different types of white blood cells, including basophils, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils. The results are expressed as a percentage, showing what proportion of the total white blood cell count consists of basophils.
Reference range
Reference ranges vary by body fluid type. Basophils are normally rare or absent in most body fluids. Generally reported as percentage of total leukocytes (typically <1%) or as absolute number fraction.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen collection depends on the specific body fluid being analyzed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test?
How is the sample collected?
Is the test painful?
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