Total Serum Epithelial Cell Count (Sheep Blood Sample)
This test measures the total number of epithelial cells found in a sample of your blood, drawn from sheep (though this is a research/educational reference—your blood tests are typically from human samples). Epithelial cells are a type of cell lining surfaces and cavities in the body. Note: This specific test is not commonly used in human clinical practice and may not apply to your current bloodwork.
["This test helps assess potential blood contamination or abnormal cell presence, though it is not a standard human diagnostic tool."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 61344-8
- Short code
- Sheep Epith IgE/IgE total %
- Synonyms
- Sheep Epith IgE/IgE total %
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
What This Test Actually Measures in Humans
In human medicine, your blood tests typically measure different substances, enzymes, or cell types (like white blood cells, red blood cells, or proteins) rather than counting epithelial cells. If you’re seeing this test result, it may be a misinterpretation or an outdated reference. Standard blood tests focus on analytes like hemoglobin, electrolytes, or markers for inflammation, not epithelial cells.
Why You Might Not Have This Test
Most routine blood tests (e.g., CBC, chemistry panels) do not include epithelial cell counts. If you received this test, it could be an error, a specialized research study, or a miscommunication. Always confirm with your healthcare provider which test was actually ordered.
What to Do Next
Contact your healthcare team to clarify the test result. Ask if this was a standard blood test or if there’s a specific reason it was performed. Request an explanation of what your actual bloodwork results mean for your health.
Common Misinterpretations
This test is not a standard diagnostic tool for humans. Epithelial cells in blood are rare and usually not measured unless there’s a specific clinical suspicion (e.g., contamination or rare conditions). If you’re concerned about your blood results, focus on tests like CBC (complete blood count) or specific protein/enzyme panels instead.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
In humans, epithelial cells in blood are not typically measured as part of standard diagnostics. Their presence could indicate contamination (e.g., from a skin sample or improper specimen handling) or, rarely, conditions like certain cancers or infections. However, this test is not a reliable or clinically valid measure for most patients.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my lab report show a test for epithelial cells in blood?
No, this test is not used in human medicine. Epithelial cells in blood are not a diagnostic marker for any known condition. If you’re concerned, review your actual blood test results with your doctor.
No, this test is not linked to any human disease. Epithelial cells in blood are not a diagnostic indicator for illnesses. Standard tests (e.g., for infections, diabetes, or kidney function) are used instead.
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