Specimen:

Miscellaneous Body Fluids

Collection Medium:

Minimum:

1.0 mL

Testing
Schedule:

24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Analytic Time:

3 hours (upon receipt in laboratory)

Comments:

Includes cell counts and total nucleated cell differential if three or 
more cells are found.  The differential is based on the morphologic 
examination of a wright-stained cytospin preparation.  The cells are 
reported as number per ul; erythrocytes, total nucleated cells, 
neutrophils, lymphocytes, and a composite group of 
monocytes-histocytes-macrophages mesothelials.  These slides are 
retained for approximately 2 months.

Methodology:

Count and Wright Stain

Sample
Processing:

Submit in leakproof container.
Specimen source is required on requisition for processing.
Do Not Centrifuge.

Sample
Storage:

Refrigerate.

Transport
Instructions:

Place specimen into zip-lock type bag, seal bag.
Place requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.

Instructions:

Synovial fluid specimens must be sent in an EDTA tube (lavender top) 
since they often clot.

CPT Code:

89051