Fluid Examination Routine - BAL FLUID
Also Known As
Test Parameters Included
- Total Cell Count and Differential (macrophages, lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, RBCs) per μL
- Microscopy - Gram stain, AFB stain, fungal elements, cytology remark
- Culture - bacterial, mycobacterial (MGIT), and fungal culture report
Department
Methodology
Sample Required
Preparation
Schedule Report
24 Hours
Emergency Report
Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BAL fluid and how is it collected?
Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid is collected during bronchoscopy by instilling sterile saline into a lung segment and suctioning it back. It contains cells and microbes from the lower respiratory tract for diagnostic analysis.
Why is BAL fluid examination done?
It helps diagnose pulmonary infections (bacterial, TB, fungal), interstitial lung diseases, alveolar hemorrhage, and malignancies when sputum tests are inconclusive.
Is fasting required before BAL fluid collection?
Fasting is not required for the lab test itself. However, the bronchoscopy procedure typically requires 6-8 hours fasting as per anesthesia guidelines.
What do elevated neutrophils in BAL fluid indicate?
Neutrophilic predominance (>3%) suggests acute bacterial pneumonia, diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, or acute lung injury. It helps differentiate infectious from non-infectious causes.
How long does the culture report take?
Bacterial culture results are available within 24-48 hours. Mycobacterial (TB) culture may take 2-8 weeks via MGIT method. Fungal culture reports within 1-2 weeks.
How to access the BAL fluid report?
Verified PDF report is available within 24-72 hours via www.drpatholab.in or WhatsApp/Email after sample collection at our Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar lab.
Test Description
Test Code
F13B
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