Differential Count, Blood

Includes: Absolute and Percent – Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, and Basophils

Preferred Specimen(s): Whole blood from a full EDTA (lavender-top) tube

Minimum Volume: Microtainer 500 µL • 1 mL whole blood EDTA (lavender-top) tube

Collection Instructions: Maintain specimen at room temperature. Do not refrigerate. If multiple draw, collect EDTA (lavender-top) tube last. Traumatic draw can introduce thromboplastin and trap WBC and platelets. Refrigeration can precipitate fibrin and trap WBC and platelets.

Transport Container: EDTA (lavender-top) tube

Transport Temperature: Room temperature

Specimen Stability: Room temperature: 48 hours

Reject Criteria:

·         Hemolysis

·         Clotted

Methodology: Electronic Cell Sizing and Counting/Cytometry/Microscopy

Clinical Significance: Evaluation of anemia, leukemia, reaction to inflammation and infections, peripheral blood cellular characteristics, state of hydration and dehydration, polycythemia, hemolytic disease of newborn, and ABO compatibilities.