Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Cell counts, WBC differential and morphology reports from cytospin preparations are performed on body fluids to assess for infection or haematological malignancy.Fluid types include CSF, Ascetic Fluid, PD fluid, Synovial fluid, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and pleural fluid.
CSF counts and cytospin for suspected haematological malignancyCSF screening for trypanosomiasis. Cell counts including WBC and differential counts of neutrophils, mononuclear cells and eosinophils on Ascetic fluid, Pleural fluid, Synovial fluid/Knee aspirates, PD fluids for suspected infection.Note: Body fluids for suspected malignancy and joint fluid crystals should be sent to cytologyCSF counts for suspected meningitis should be sent to microbiologyPlease refer to Trust protocol for CSF counts in suspected SAH.
Specimen container paediatric:
Sample should be taken into EDTA (purple top) adult tube for all samples with the exception of CSF. CSF samples should be taken into a Universal container.
Specimen container adult:
Sample should be taken into EDTA (purple top) adult tube for all samples with the exception of CSF. CSF samples should be taken into a universal container.
Sample stability:
4 hours Room Temperature. 24 hours 4oC.CSF samples for Trypanosomiasis 1 hour.
Transport requirements:
ASAP. Urgent for CSF counts.
Add on test:
tnu-tr.bloodsciencesadditions@nhs.net (external)
Interpretation:
Interpretation should take into account the numerical results of the cell count, WBC differential and specific morphology as well as the clinical context. Contact Haematology for further advice or referral.Additional tests including flow cytometry and cytogenetics may be added onto the specimen when appropriate.
Reference ranges:
Variable depending on sample type. See specific departmental guidelines or contact haematology for further advice.
Factors affecting result:
Adequate volumeAdequate mixingClots in sampleSample haemolysisStorage TemperatureAge of specimen.