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Test Code Lipid Laden Lipid Laden Macrophage Index

Useful For

Gastroesophageal reflux with aspiration is primarily a clinical diagnosis. Determining an index of lipid laden macrophage in tracheal secretions may be useful in recognition, evaluation and confirmation of aspiration pneumonia.

Collection Method

tracheal aspirate or bronchioalveolar lavage

Minimum Volume

100-500 microliters for each slide. At least 2 cytocentrifuged slide preparations should be made from each specimen for review.

Container

Sterile Cup

Preferred Specimen

BAL

Acceptable Specimens

Sterile Container

Reference or Target Ranges

Interpretation of the indexes based upon the following
Score Comment
0 – 74 Negative for aspiration
75 – 124 Indeterminant for aspiration
125 – 149 Suggestive of aspiration
>150 Supportive of aspiration

Reasons for Rejection

Hemolysis Threshold
 N/A
Icterus Threshold
 N/A
Lipemia Threshold
 N/A
Other
 QNS, Improper collection, Improper specimen

Specimen Stability

Ambient
 2 hours
Refrigerated (4°C to 8°C)
 N/A
Frozen(-70°C to 0°C)
 N/A

Performance Information

Days and Time Performed
 Monday – Friday regular daytime hours (8am – 4pm). Sent to Pathologist for review
Expected Turn Around Time
 2 – 7 days
Stat Availabilty
Performing Bench
 UH Hematology
Methodology/Method Description
 2 cytospin slides submitted to Histology for Oil Red Orange staining. Slides returned to Hematology for counting and scoring of avelor macrophages

Special Handling

Due to this being a irretrievable specimen samples will be tested when received

Additional Information/Important Notes

BAL samples collected at WCH should have cytospins made before sending the sample to UH for testing

CPT Codes

88108