There are several sources that state that the counting of RBCs has little diagnostic value in serous fluids. The big exception being in peritoneal lavage specimens in order to confirm intra-abdominal bleeding.

Does everyone still perform RBC counts on serous fluids?

I am hoping to discontinue the use of exact counts and replace it with a range. I have sources to back it up but would like to see if there are other laboratories that have discontinued providing the RBC count.

References:

Rodak B, Fristsma G, Doig K: Hematology Clinical Principles and Applications, 3^rd Ed. Saunders, St. Louis, 2007.

Strasinger SK, DiLorenzo MS, Urinalysis and Body Fluids, 4^th ed. F.A. Davis, Philadelphia, 2001.

Kjeldsberg C, Knight J, Body Fluids, 3^rd Ed. ASCP Press, Chicago, 1993.

Walters J, Analysis of Body Fluids Self-Study Course #116, CACMLE, Denver, 2004.

Thank you,

Colleen

We do not routinely do RBC counts for any fluids other than CSF.

Scott

CLSI document H56 "Body Fluid Analysis for Cellular Composition; Approved Guideline" states for pleural, pericardial, and peritoneal fluids that the red cell count is of little diagnostic value. (pp32-33)