Cytology (Cell Sample) Screening Test for Certain Abnormal Cells
This test examines cells collected from your body to check for abnormalities that might indicate conditions like cancer or inflammation.
["Early detection of potential health concerns through cell analysis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38512-0
- Short code
- CD2CD3
- Synonyms
- CD2+CD3+ Cells NFr Spec
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or heparinized green-top tube for flow cytometry. ACD tube is also acceptable.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Flow Cytometry with immunofluorescence staining using monoclonal antibodies against CD2 and CD3 surface markers
- CPT
- 86359
- SNOMED
- 40733004
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL whole blood for adults; minimum 1 mL for pediatric patients
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 24-48 hours of collection when stored at room temperature (20-25°C). Refrigeration may affect viability of certain cell populations. Do not freeze.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–48 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is This Test Meant to Detect?
This test involves analyzing cells from a sample (likely from a bodily fluid or tissue) to identify abnormal cell types. It may be used to screen for precancerous changes, infections, or other cellular irregularities that require further investigation.
How Is the Sample Collected?
The sample is typically obtained through a procedure like fine-needle aspiration, brushing, or swabbing. The cells are then processed and examined under a microscope or through advanced imaging techniques to detect any irregularities.
When Might You Need This Test?
You may need this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, persistent sores, unusual bleeding, or if your doctor suspects a condition that affects cell health, such as certain cancers or chronic infections.
What Does the Test Involve?
The test involves collecting cells from a specific area (e.g., lung, breast, or other tissue) and examining them for abnormalities. The results are compared to known patterns of healthy and diseased cells to determine if further testing or treatment is needed.
Reference range
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and clinical context. Results are typically reported as percentage of total lymphocytes or absolute cell count per microliter. CD2+CD3+ cells normally represent the majority of mature peripheral T lymphocytes.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Recent blood transfusions, immunosuppressive therapy, or bone marrow transplantation may affect results and should be noted on the requisition.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Cell Screening Test
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to take this test?
What are the possible results of this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy