Overview: Total Leukocyte Count TestIntroduction: The Total Leukocyte Count Test measures total leukocyte count to diagnose infections or leukemia, causing fever or fatigue. Following 2023 ASH guidelines, it uses hematology methods for high specificity, supporting blood disorder screening. This test is critical for guiding diagnosis, treatment planning, and improving outcomes in hematology for patients with suspected infections or leukemia.
Other Names: TLC Assay, White Blood Cell Count Test.
FDA Status: Laboratory-developed test (LDT), meeting hematology standards for diagnostic accuracy.
Historical Milestone: Leukocyte counting began in the 1900s with hematology research. Automated analyzers improved in the 2000s, enhancing diagnostic precision.
Purpose: Measures total leukocyte count to diagnose infections or leukemia, guides treatment, and evaluates patients with fever or fatigue.
Test Parameters: 1. Total Leucocyte Count
Pretest Condition: No fasting required. Collect whole blood. Report history of fever, fatigue, or infection symptoms.
Specimen: Whole Blood (EDTA, 2-5 mL). Transport in a biohazard container.
Sample Stability at Room Temperature: 24 hours
Sample Stability at Refrigeration: 48 hours
Sample Stability at Frozen: Not frozen
Medical History: Document fever, fatigue, or history of infections or leukemia. Include current medications, especially antibiotics or chemotherapy.
Consent: Written consent required, detailing the tests purpose, infection/leukemia implications, and risks of sample collection.
Procedural Considerations: Uses automated hematology analyzers to count total leukocytes. Results are available in 1-2 days, supporting clinical decisions. Performed in laboratories, often for infection or leukemia diagnosis.
Factors Affecting Result Accuracy: Improper sample storage or hemolysis can affect results. Recent infections or medications may alter counts.
Clinical Significance: Elevated or low leukocyte counts confirm infections or leukemia, guiding antibiotic or chemotherapy treatment. Normal counts may require differential or bone marrow analysis.
Specialist Consultation: Consult a hematologist or infectious disease specialist for result interpretation and treatment planning.
Additional Supporting Tests: Differential leukocyte count, bone marrow biopsy, or blood culture to confirm infection/leukemia diagnosis.
Test Limitations: Non-specific for infection or leukemia type; clinical correlation is needed. Sample quality affects sensitivity.
References: ASH Hematology Guidelines, 2023; Blood, Kaushansky K, 2022.
