Immunophenotyping of White Blood Cells (Flow Cytometry)
This test analyzes the types and proportions of white blood cells in your blood to identify abnormalities in cell counts or markers that may indicate conditions like infections, immune disorders, or cancers.
["This helps doctors diagnose and monitor blood-related diseases by checking cell types and immune function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34924-1
- Short code
- Imm Moncytes # Bld
- Synonyms
- Imm Moncytes # Bld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test uses a specialized machine (flow cytometer) to examine specific proteins (markers) on the surfaces of different white blood cell types. It identifies and quantifies cells such as lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, often looking for markers like CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, etc., which can signal immune activity or abnormalities.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to investigate symptoms like frequent infections, unexplained fevers, or to diagnose conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, or immune deficiencies. It can also help monitor treatment progress in blood cancers or immune disorders.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is processed and analyzed immediately or within hours to identify cell types and markers without relying on specific numeric ranges.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is critical for diagnosing and managing blood cancers (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma), immune disorders (e.g., HIV, autoimmune diseases), and infections where white blood cell counts or functions are abnormal.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Results help determine the type and stage of blood disorders, guide treatment decisions (e.g., chemotherapy, immunotherapy), and track response to therapy. Abnormal cell counts or marker patterns may indicate underlying diseases that require further medical evaluation.
Short name
WBC Immunophenotyping
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often is this test repeated?
Does this test involve radiation or pain?
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