White Blood Cell Count in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid
This test measures the number of white blood cells found in fluid collected from your lungs during a procedure called bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). It helps assess lung inflammation or infection.
["The test helps doctors understand if your lungs have an infection or inflammation that needs treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30401-4
- Short code
- WBC # Bronch
- Synonyms
- WBC # Bronch
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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 Is Done
A BAL is a procedure where a thin tube is inserted into your airways to collect fluid from your lungs. This fluid is then tested for white blood cells. Doctors may order this test if they suspect conditions like pneumonia, lung infections, or other lung diseases that cause inflammation.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may receive a local anesthetic to numb your throat. You’ll likely be asked to stay still while the tube is inserted and fluid is collected. You may feel mild discomfort but should not experience pain. Recovery is usually quick, and you can return to normal activities soon after.
What the Results Mean
Higher than expected white blood cell counts in BAL fluid may indicate inflammation, infection, or other lung issues. Lower counts could suggest less inflammation or infection. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your symptoms and medical history.
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Risks are generally low, but possible side effects may include mild coughing, sore throat, or temporary discomfort. Rarely, there may be complications like bleeding or infection at the site of the procedure.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
WBC in BAL
Frequently asked questions
What does an elevated white blood cell count in BAL fluid suggest?
How does this test compare to a routine blood test?
Can I prepare for this test in any special way?
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