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Basophilsnfrdiafpmanual

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test counts basophils (a type of white blood cell) in the fluid used for peritoneal dialysis to check for infection.

Quick summary

{"Basophils are white blood cells that fight infection and allergic reactions","This test helps detect peritonitis (abdominal infection) in peritoneal dialysis patients","Normal basophil counts in dialysis fluid suggest no infection","Elevated counts indicate possible infection or inflammation requiring treatment","Regular monitoring is essential for patients on peritoneal dialysis"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40540-7
Short code
PDBLM
Synonyms
Basophils NFr DiafP Manual
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, leak-proof, screw-cap plastic container (50-100 mL) without preservatives; appropriate for microbiological culture and cell counts
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
manual-count
CPT
89051 (Cell count, miscellaneous body fluids, with differential count)
SNOMED
40608004 | 16958000
Specimen volume
10-50 mL of peritoneal dialysis effluent; minimum 5 mL preferred for adequate cell counting
Stability
Process within 1-2 hours of collection for optimal cell morphology. If delayed, refrigerate at 2-8°C and analyze within 4 hours. Do not freeze.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
1–4 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test counts basophils, which are a type of white blood cell (leukocyte), in the fluid that is used for peritoneal dialysis. Peritoneal dialysis is a treatment that helps filter waste from your blood when your kidneys cannot function properly. The test uses manual microscopic examination to count the basophils present in the dialysis fluid.

Why is this test performed?

The main purpose of this test is to monitor for infections, particularly peritonitis, in patients who undergo peritoneal dialysis. Peritonitis is a serious infection of the abdominal cavity that can occur when bacteria enter through the dialysis catheter. By regularly checking basophil and total leukocyte counts in the dialysis fluid, healthcare providers can detect infections early and begin treatment promptly.

How is the test done?

A sample of the peritoneal dialysis fluid is collected from the dialysis bag or from the catheter after the dwell time (the time the fluid remains in your abdomen). The sample is then sent to a laboratory where a technician examines it under a microscope to count the number of basophils and other white blood cells. This manual count provides detailed information about the types of cells present in the fluid.

What do the results mean?

Normal results typically show very low or absent basophils and low total white blood cell counts (usually less than 100 cells/μL) in the peritoneal dialysis fluid. Elevated basophil or total leukocyte counts usually indicate infection or inflammation in the peritoneal cavity. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in the context of your overall health and other test findings.

Reference range

Normally absent or very rare in peritoneal dialysis effluent; basophils are not typically reported as a percentage in peritoneal fluid. Baseline peritoneal leukocyte count: <100 cells/mm³ in stable patientsN/A

Specimen: serum

Ensure PD catheter exit site is clean before drainage. Drainage bag should be emptied of residual dialysate before collection. Patient should document dwell time prior to collection. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Does the test hurt?
The test itself is painless as it only requires a sample of dialysis fluid that is already being used in your treatment. The fluid is collected from your dialysis equipment, not directly from your body.
How often should this test be done?
The frequency varies depending on your condition and your healthcare provider's recommendations. It may be done routinely during regular dialysis clinic visits, or more frequently if you have symptoms of infection.
What are the symptoms of peritonitis I should watch for?
Watch for cloudy dialysis fluid, abdominal pain or tenderness, fever, nausea, and feeling generally unwell. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dialysis team immediately as they may need to test your dialysis fluid.
What happens if my test results are abnormal?
If basophil or white blood cell counts are elevated, your healthcare provider will likely start antibiotic treatment and may order additional tests to identify the specific cause of infection. They will monitor you closely until the infection clears.
Can I do this test at home?
Some patients are trained to check the clarity of their dialysis fluid at home, but the actual basophil count must be performed in a laboratory by trained personnel. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions about monitoring for signs of infection.
  1. 1
    National Kidney Foundation - Peritoneal DialysisSource
  2. 2
    UpToDate - Peritonitis in peritoneal dialysisSource
  3. 3
    LOINC Code ReferenceSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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