B-cell Lymphocyte Count (Absolute)
This test measures the number of B-cells (a type of white blood cell) in your blood. B-cells are important for making antibodies that help fight infections.
["B-cells help your immune system defend against germs and diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51333-3
- Short code
- CD19CD43
- Synonyms
- CD19+CD43+ Cells NFr Tiss
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile tissue transport container with appropriate transport medium (e.g., RPMI 1640 or saline); heparinized tube acceptable for cell suspensions
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Flow cytometry immunophenotyping
- CPT
- 88184
- SNOMED
- 249327004
- Specimen volume
- Adequate tissue biopsy (minimum 0.5 cm³) or 1-5 mL of cell suspension in tissue-appropriate transport medium
- Stability
- Fresh tissue should be processed within 24 hours of collection when stored at 2-8°C; cell suspensions stable up to 48 hours at 2-8°C; do not freeze
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of an immune system issue, such as frequent infections, unusual fatigue, or unexplained swelling. It could also be part of a checkup for conditions like lymphoma, leukemia, or autoimmune diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a simple blood draw, usually from a vein in your arm. The process takes a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch, but it’s generally quick and comfortable.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are compared to a standard range for healthy adults. Low counts may suggest immune disorders, infections, or certain cancers. High counts might indicate overactive immune responses or certain blood disorders. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.
Common Reasons for Abnormal Results
Low B-cell counts could be due to infections, chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, or genetic conditions. High counts might be linked to chronic infections, certain cancers, or overstimulation of the immune system.
Reference range
Interpretation provided in report; results expressed as percentage of CD19+ B-lymphocytes co-expressing CD43 and as absolute count per tissue specimen or cellular subsetN/A
No special patient preparation required. Inform the laboratory of any current immunosuppressive therapy, recent blood transfusions, or concurrent monoclonal antibody treatment (e.g., rituximab) that may affect B-cell populations.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal B-cell counts can signal underlying health issues, such as immune deficiencies, cancers like lymphoma, or autoimmune disorders. Monitoring these cells helps doctors diagnose and manage conditions affecting your immune system.
Short name
B-Cell Count
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What does a low B-cell count mean?
Can diet or supplements affect B-cell counts?
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