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CD38-positive Blast Cells, Number Fraction, Whole Blood — Flow Cytometry

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

Measures the proportion of blast cells in a blood sample that express the CD38 protein, using flow cytometry.

Quick summary

["This test shows whether blood blast cells carry the CD38 marker, which can help classify certain blood cancers."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107060-6
Short code
Blasts.CD38/Blasts NFr Bld FC
Synonyms
Blasts.CD38/Blasts NFr Bld FC
Category
liver
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
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
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This blood test uses flow cytometry to measure the fraction of blast cells that have the CD38 protein on their surface. Blasts are immature blood cells that do not mature normally and may indicate a blood disorder when present in unusual amounts.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used during the evaluation or monitoring of a leukemia or another blood cancer. CD38 is a cell-surface marker that can support diagnosis, classification, prognosis, and, in some cases, treatment selection.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and examined with flow cytometry. The laboratory identifies the blast cells and determines how many of them express CD38.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required for this test. Follow any instructions provided by your healthcare professional, particularly if the test is being repeated during cancer treatment.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

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

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An increased fraction of CD38-positive blasts may be seen in some blood cancers, including certain forms of acute leukemia. The finding is interpreted with the blood count, smear, other flow-cytometry results, bone marrow findings, and clinical history; it does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Short name

CD38-positive blasts

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have cancer?
No. CD38 is also found on some normal blood cells, and the result must be interpreted with the number of blasts and the rest of the laboratory evaluation.
Is this the same as a CD38 urine test?
No. This test measures CD38 on the surface of blast cells in a blood sample.
Why is this test repeated?
It may be repeated to assess changes in the blast population over time, especially during diagnosis, treatment, or monitoring of a blood cancer.
  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