Basophilsnfrspt
This test measures the levels of basophils and other white blood cells in your sputum (phlegm) to help evaluate lung and respiratory conditions.
{"The test examines immune cells in your sputum to assess lung inflammation or infection","Basophils are white blood cells that play a role in allergic reactions and inflammation","Results help doctors diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or pneumonia","The test requires a sputum sample collected by coughing deeply from the lungs"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30375-0
- Short code
- BASSPUT
- Synonyms
- Basophils NFr Spt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- sputum
- Container
- Sterile, wide-mouth, leak-proof sputum collection container with screw-cap lid; sterile disposable cup
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Microscopic examination with Wright-Giemsa or hematoxylin and eosin stain; manual differential cell count of stained sputum smear
- CPT
- 88108 (Cytopathology, concentration technique, smears and simple filter preparation with interpretation); 86003 (Allergen specific IgE if allergy-related workup indicated)
- SNOMED
- 30375-0
- Specimen volume
- 1-3 mL of expectorated sputum (minimum 1 mL); deep cough specimen preferred over saliva
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; Should be processed promptly to prevent cellular degradation and bacterial overgrowth
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Basophils/Leukocytes in Sputum test is a laboratory analysis that measures the number and percentage of basophils and other white blood cells in a sample of your sputum (the mucus you cough up from your lungs). Basophils are a type of white blood cell that are part of your immune system and play an important role in fighting infections and in allergic reactions. This test helps doctors understand what is happening in your airways and lungs.
Why is this test performed?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a respiratory condition such as persistent cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, or excessive mucus production. The test can help determine if your symptoms are due to an infection, inflammation, an allergic reaction, or another lung condition. It is often used to monitor conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, or allergic respiratory diseases.
How is the sample collected?
You will be asked to provide a sputum sample, which is different from saliva. You will need to cough deeply from your lungs to produce mucus, not just clear your throat. It is best to collect the sample in the morning before eating or drinking. Rinse your mouth with water first to avoid contamination with saliva. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis under a microscope.
What do the results mean?
The results show the number and percentage of basophils and other white blood cells (like neutrophils, eosinophils, and lymphocytes) in your sputum. Elevated basophils may indicate an allergic reaction or inflammation in the airways. Increased white blood cells generally suggest an infection or inflammatory condition. Your doctor will interpret these results along with your symptoms and other test findings to make a diagnosis or guide treatment.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
No fasting required. Patient should rinse mouth with water before collection to minimize contamination with oral squamous cells. Avoid food, drink, smoking, or oral medications for at least 1 hour prior to collection. Perform deep coughing to produce a specimen from the lower respiratory tract.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the test painful?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
How long does it take to get results?
What conditions are associated with abnormal basophil levels in sputum?
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