White Blood Cell Differential (Manual Count) in Fluid Sample
This test measures the types and proportions of white blood cells (WBCs) in a fluid sample, such as blood or another bodily fluid, using a manual counting method. It helps identify infections, immune responses, or other conditions affecting your blood cells.
["This test provides detailed insight into your immune system’s composition and potential health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13524-4
- Short code
- WBC Other NFr Fld Manual
- Synonyms
- WBC Other NFr Fld Manual
- 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
- Method
- manual-count
- 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
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections (such as bacterial or viral), autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, or to evaluate immune responses. It can also help assess conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, or other hematologic disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. If drawn from blood, you may have a small needle inserted into your arm. If from another fluid (like urine or spinal fluid), follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for sample collection. Avoid strenuous activity or certain medications if specified.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will collect a small sample of fluid (e.g., blood, urine, or spinal fluid) using a sterile needle or catheter. The sample is then examined under a microscope by a trained technician to count and classify each type of white blood cell manually. Results are reported as percentages or absolute counts of each cell type.
What the Results Mean
Results show the proportion of different WBC types (e.g., neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes) and may indicate shifts in immune activity. For example, high neutrophils might suggest infection, while high lymphocytes could signal chronic inflammation or immune disorders. Always discuss results with your doctor.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
WBC Differential (Manual)
Frequently asked questions
What does a manual WBC differential tell me about my health?
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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