Histiocyte Count in Body Fluids
This test measures the number of histiocytes (a type of white blood cell involved in immune response and tissue repair) present in a body fluid sample, such as blood, lymph fluid, or other bodily fluids.
["Understanding your histiocyte levels may help assess immune function or inflammation in fluids."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35055-3
- Short code
- Histiocytes NFr Fld
- Synonyms
- Histiocytes NFr Fld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 86430
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate conditions affecting immune cells, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain cancers. It could also help monitor responses to treatments targeting immune cells.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or activities that could influence results. Your provider will clarify any restrictions based on your specific situation.
How the Test Is Performed
A small sample of fluid (e.g., blood, lymph, or other bodily fluid) is collected via a needle or other sampling device. The fluid is then analyzed under a microscope to count histiocytes.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Results are reported as a count of histiocytes per unit volume of fluid. Elevated counts may suggest immune activation or certain diseases, while very low counts could indicate immune suppression or other conditions. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High histiocyte counts in fluids may indicate chronic inflammation, granulomatous diseases (like sarcoidosis), or certain infections. Low counts could signal immune deficiencies or conditions affecting immune cell production. This test is often used alongside other diagnostic tools for a complete evaluation.
Short name
Histiocyte Count
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low histiocyte count mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect histiocyte levels?
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