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Unidentified Cell Count in Plasma (or Serum) by Flow Cytometry

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the number of specific cells in your blood plasma or serum, which may help identify unusual cell types or conditions affecting your blood.

Quick summary

This test helps doctors assess blood cell health or detect rare or abnormal cell populations.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
34983-7
Short code
Unident Cells NFr Plr
Synonyms
Unident Cells NFr Plr
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test uses a specialized instrument called a flow cytometer to analyze cells in your blood sample. It detects and counts different types of cells based on their size, shape, and surface markers. Some cells may appear unusual if they’re too few, too many, or have different characteristics than expected.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, bleeding, infections, or unexplained bruising. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for blood disorders, immune system issues, or cancer screening.

Common Uses and Conditions

This test is often used to monitor conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, or other blood-related disorders. It may also help diagnose or track treatment progress in cases where standard blood counts don’t provide enough information.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm, and the plasma or serum portion is separated from the blood cells. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using flow cytometry, which counts and categorizes cells based on their unique properties.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

How does this test differ from a standard complete blood count (CBC)?
Unlike a CBC, which typically counts red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, this test focuses on identifying and quantifying specific cell types that might not be visible or measurable in a standard CBC. It can reveal subtle abnormalities that standard tests might miss.
What might cause an abnormal result?
Abnormal results could indicate conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancers like leukemia. If you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fatigue, discuss these findings with your doctor to explore further testing or treatment options.
Can this test be done at home?
No, this test requires a lab setting. Blood samples are collected by a healthcare professional, and results are analyzed in a specialized lab. Follow-up with your doctor is essential to interpret the results and determine next steps.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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