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White Blood Cell Count (Manual Differential Count of Gastric Fluid)

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

This test measures the number of white blood cells in your stomach fluid, which may help assess inflammation or infection in the stomach.

Quick summary

["Checking white blood cells in stomach fluid can help diagnose conditions like gastritis or stomach ulcers."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14373-5
Short code
WBC # Gast Manual
Synonyms
WBC # Gast Manual
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
2 N/A – 30 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
manual-count
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained weight loss. It can also be used to monitor conditions like chronic gastritis or after treatments for stomach infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure, but this depends on your doctor’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

How the Test Is Performed

A small sample of your stomach fluid is collected using an endoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera. The fluid is then examined under a microscope by a trained technician to count white blood cells manually.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal white blood cell counts in stomach fluid may indicate inflammation, infection, or an autoimmune condition affecting your stomach. Lower-than-normal counts might suggest a lack of inflammation or an underlying issue that needs further evaluation.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

WBC in Gastric Fluid (Manual)

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated white blood cells in stomach fluid?
Elevated white blood cells in stomach fluid are often linked to conditions like chronic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), Helicobacter pylori infection, or other infections. They can also appear after treatments like steroids or chemotherapy that affect the stomach.
How long does it take to get results?
Results from this manual test are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Your doctor will provide specific instructions, but generally, you may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure to ensure accurate results. Always follow their guidance.
  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