Cytology: Cell Count in Fluid (Confirmed)
This test measures the number of cells present in a body fluid sample, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), to help diagnose conditions affecting cell populations.
["A cell count helps identify abnormal cell presence that may signal infections, inflammation, or other health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40861-7
- Short code
- CD103
- Synonyms
- CD103 Cells NFr Tiss
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile tissue container with 10% neutral buffered formalin (for IHC) or RPMI transport medium (for flow cytometry); sterile saline acceptable for short-term transport
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) or Flow Cytometry with CD103-specific monoclonal antibody staining
- CPT
- 88342 (immunohistochemistry, first antibody stain) or 88184 (flow cytometry, cell surface marker, technical component)
- SNOMED
- 250635005 (CD103 antigen) / 387713003 (immunohistochemistry procedure)
- Specimen volume
- Tissue biopsy specimen of adequate size (minimum 0.5 cm); for flow cytometry, minimum 1-2 cm³ fresh tissue in appropriate transport medium
- Stability
- Formalin-fixed tissue: stable indefinitely at room temperature; Fresh tissue for flow cytometry: stable for 24 hours at 2-8°C in transport medium; do not freeze fresh specimens intended for flow cytometry
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, or neurological issues that could indicate conditions such as meningitis, brain tumors, or other fluid-related disorders. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress or check for hidden infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless your doctor specifies. If the fluid sample comes from a spinal tap (lumbar puncture), you may need to fast or avoid certain medications. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
What Happens During the Test
The test involves collecting fluid (e.g., CSF) through a needle inserted into your spine or another body cavity. The fluid is then sent to a lab, where trained professionals count and examine the cells under a microscope.
What the Results Mean
Results show the total cell count, which may include white blood cells (indicating infection or inflammation), red blood cells (suggesting bleeding), or other cell types. Abnormal counts can point to specific conditions, but interpretation depends on clinical context.
Reference range
Interpretation provided in report; CD103 expression is qualitative (positive/negative) and reported as percentage of cells expressing CD103 marker within the tissue specimenN/A
No fasting required. Specimen collection typically occurs during biopsy or surgical procedure. Patient should follow standard pre-procedural instructions provided by their healthcare provider. Inform physician of any anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication use prior to tissue sampling
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Cell Count in Body Fluid (Confirmed)
Frequently asked questions
How does a high cell count in fluid affect my health?
What if my test results are abnormal?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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