Test Code Billings Clinic: 6636 White Blood Cells, Stool
Performing Laboratory
Billings Clinic Laboratory: Microbiology
Methodology
Iodine Stain
Specimen Requirements
- Always collect specimen BEFORE any barium procedures.
- Submit 0.5 g of fresh stool in a clean, dry, leakproof container with a tightly-fitting lid.
- If specimen is collected in a bedpan or collection “hat,” patient should urinate into another container before stool specimen is collected.
- If there is a delay in transport of ≥6 hours, use formalin transport system supplied.
- Do not collect specimen from toilet.
- Specimen in diaper is not acceptable.
- Stool material should be scraped into a clean, dry, leakproof container with a tightly-fitting lid.
- Pediatric patients with severe diarrhea may use a U-bag Collection System. Place bag over anal area in an attempt to retrieve specimen before it soaks into diaper.
Reject Due To
- Leaking specimen container.
- Specimen contaminated with urine and/or water.
- Specimen in diaper.
Reference Values
Neutrophils are frequently seen in patients with shigellosis, salmonellosis, invasive Escherichia coli colitis, Yersinia infection, and ulcerative colitis.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Daily
Test Classification and CPT Coding
89055 - Leukocyte assessment, fecal, qualitative or semiquantitative
If culture is also desired; order Billings Clinic: #6643 “Culture, Stool, Panel.” This procedure is also included in Billings Clinic: #6767 “Ova and Parasites, Screening, Stool.”