B-cell Lymphocyte Count (Absolute)
This test measures the number of B-cells (a type of white blood cell) in your blood to help assess immune function, particularly in conditions involving immune system disorders.
["B-cell counts help diagnose and monitor immune-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51352-3
- Short code
- CD19CD58
- Synonyms
- CD19+CD58+ Cells NFr Tiss
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile tissue collection container with appropriate transport medium (e.g., RPMI 1640 or saline) for flow cytometry; tissue should be transported fresh or refrigerated (2-8°C)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Flow cytometry with dual immunofluorescence staining using monoclonal antibodies (anti-CD19 and anti-CD58), typically performed on fresh tissue homogenate or cell suspension
- CPT
- 88184
- SNOMED
- 399080008
- Specimen volume
- Fresh tissue biopsy sample of adequate size (minimum 0.5-1 cm³) to obtain sufficient cell yield for flow cytometric analysis
- Stability
- Tissue must be processed within 24 hours of collection for optimal cell viability; store at 2-8°C during transport; do not freeze
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to immune system issues, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers (e.g., lymphoma). It may also be used to monitor treatment effectiveness or check for immune deficiencies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. The process is quick and typically painless.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are usually reported as a count of B-cells per microliter of blood. Lower than expected counts may suggest immune system problems, while higher counts could indicate overactive immune responses or certain infections.
Common Conditions Affecting Results
Low B-cell counts might be seen in conditions like HIV/AIDS, certain cancers, or long-term immune suppression. High counts could be linked to chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or overactive immune responses.
Reference range
Reference values are laboratory-specific and method-dependent; results are typically reported as percentage of CD19+CD58+ cells relative to total lymphocyte population or as absolute count per unit tissue weight. Consult laboratory-specific reference range for interpretation.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected under sterile conditions to preserve cell viability for flow cytometric analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
B-cell count
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
Will fasting affect this test?
What if my results are outside the normal range?
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