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Blast Assessment, Specimen by Flow Cytometry

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A flow cytometry test that detects and characterizes blast cells in a blood, bone marrow, or other submitted specimen.

Quick summary

["This test identifies and characterizes immature blood cells that may be increased in certain blood cancers."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107057-2
Short code
Blasts assessmnt Spec FC
Synonyms
Blasts assessmnt Spec FC
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Blast assessment by flow cytometry measures the number of blast cells, also called blasts, in a submitted specimen. It also examines the proteins on their surfaces to help classify the cells when needed.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to investigate unexplained low blood counts, evaluate suspected blood cancers, or monitor people with leukemia, lymphoma, or a related blood disorder. It is often interpreted together with other laboratory and clinical findings.

How is the test performed?

Cells from the specimen are stained with fluorescent markers and analyzed by flow cytometry. The laboratory determines the number of blasts and evaluates which markers are present on them.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required for routine blood or bone marrow collection. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional, particularly if the specimen is being collected as part of a specific procedure.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Blast assessment

Frequently asked questions

What are blast cells?
Blasts are immature blood cells that normally develop into mature blood cells. A high proportion of blasts in blood or bone marrow can be a sign of a blood disorder.
What specimen is used for this test?
The specimen may be blood, bone marrow, or another suitable fluid or cell sample. Your healthcare professional or laboratory will provide collection instructions.
Does the test diagnose cancer by itself?
No. The results contribute to the evaluation and classification of blood disorders, but a diagnosis usually requires additional laboratory tests, imaging, and clinical assessment.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy