Cell Count (Body Fluids)

This test measures the total count and types of cells present in body fluids like cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, peritoneal fluid, pericardial fluid, and synovial fluid. This information helps doctors understand the cellular composition of these fluids and detect abnormalities that may indicate certain health conditions.

This test is done for various reasons, including:

• Diagnosing infections or inflammatory conditions affecting the body fluids
• Evaluating the progress and effectiveness of treatment for specific diseases
• Identifying cancerous or abnormal cells in body fluids
• Assessing autoimmune diseases or allergic reactions affecting the fluids

This test is recommended in situations such as:

• Suspected bacterial or viral infections affecting body fluids
• Unexplained symptoms like abdominal pain, joint pain, or chest pain
• Monitoring cancer treatment to evaluate response and detect recurrence
• Assessing fluid-related autoimmune diseases or allergic reactions

Abnormal results in the Cell Count test may indicate various health conditions such as infections, inflammation, cancer, autoimmune diseases, or allergies. However, abnormal results alone are not sufficient for a diagnosis. Further evaluation by a doctor, including additional tests and clinical correlation, is necessary to determine the underlying cause.

• A sterile EDTA container should be used to collect the body fluid sample.
• The sample should be refrigerated until it is sent to the laboratory.
• Laboratory technicians will manually count and classify the different cell types present in the fluid sample.

• The body fluid sample should be collected in a sterile EDTA container.
• Clinical history and clinician number should be provided along with the sample.
• The sample should be refrigerated before being sent to the laboratory.
• No specific dietary or medication restrictions are usually necessary.
• Any instructions given by your healthcare provider should be followed before the test.

• Culture and sensitivity testing: To identify specific bacteria or viruses causing an infection in the body fluids
• Cytology: To examine cells under a microscope and detect abnormal or cancerous cells
• Chemical analysis of the fluid: To assess glucose, protein, or other components in the fluid, providing additional diagnostic information

Total and Differential Cell Count test

 Pleural effusion is the accumulation of excess fluid between the two layers of tissue that line the lungs and chest cavity. It can be caused by various conditions such as infections, heart failure, cancer, or liver disease.