Test Details

Mnemonic

TCELL

Ordering Code

3205100

CPT-4 Code(s)

88184, 88185 x 10

Specimen Information

Click here for additional information about choosing the correct flow cytometry test

Patient Preparation

While minimum & ideal amounts of sample and transport conditions and times are suggested below, the flow lab will almost always attempt to perform the ordered flow analysis on minimal samples or markedly aged samples. However, in such instances, it may be impossible to render an interpretation due to loss of viability, loss of particular cell types and/or insufficient numbers of diagnostic calls that are analyzable by flow cytometry. Regardless of source please try to deliver sample within 24 hours of collection to Warde Laboratory even if the need for analysis is uncertain. The latter cases can be send as "Flow Holds" (FHOLD is Soft code). Due to seasonal changes in temperature it is imperative that the proper temperature is maintained during shipping, because it directly affects cell viability. For example: specimens requiring refrigeration should be shipped with a refrigerated "cold pack" or room temperature should be insulated in a way to prevent freezing during transit.
Please note: temperature stability may differ by specimen type.

Collect

Whole blood

Specimen Preparation

Send whole blood collected in yellow ACD A room temperature.

Alternate Specimen

Whole Blood: EDTA, Sodium heparin
Bone Marrow: 1 Green Top Sodium Heparin. 3.0 mL
Bone Marrow: ACD, Marrow aspirate mixed 1:1 with Heparinized media (100/u/mL Heparin, Mccoy's, or RPMI).
Lymph Nodes, Tonsil, Spleen, Other Solid Tissues: 0.5 cm of viable solid tissue. Place sample into 15 mL conical tube filled with MEM, McCoys or RPMI. If media is not available, then placeinto containers with additional saline and ship immediately to lab.
Body Fluids: 15 mL fluid in sterile container (5 mL minimum).

Minimum Volume

1.0 mL

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Rejection Criteria

Frozen samples, cracked or leaking containers, sample ≥72 hours from collection

Stability

Whole blood: ACD, EDTA, Heparin:
Room temperature: 72 hours
Refrigerate: 72 hours
Frozen: Unacceptable

Bone Marrow: Lavender EDTA:
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerate: 48 hours

Body Fluid:
Refrigerated: 24 hours

Methodology

Flow Cytometry
more

Reference Range

Interpretive report
more

Performing Laboratory

Warde Medical Laboratory
more