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HelpTest ID LEU Fecal Leukocytes
Useful For
Suggesting presence of pathogens such as Salmonella, Shigella, and amebiasis
Method Name
Microscopic
Includes trichrome stain.
Reporting Name
Fecal LeukocytesSpecimen Type
FecalContainer/Tube:
Preferred: ECOFIX preservative (Supply T219)
Acceptable: PVA preservative
Specimen Volume: Representative portion of collection
Collection Instructions:
1. Collect a random stool specimen.
2. Carefully follow instructions on container.
Forms: If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request Form (T244) with the specimen (http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/it-mmfiles/microbiology_test_request_form.pdf).
Specimen Minimum Volume
NA
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Fecal | Ambient (preferred) | 21 days |
| Refrigerated | 21 days |
Clinical Information
Leukocytes are not normally seen in stools in the absence of infection or other inflammatory processes. Fecal leukocytosis is a response to infection with microorganisms that invade tissue or produce toxins, which causes tissue damage.
Fecal leukocytes are commonly found in patients with shigellosis and salmonellosis (erythrocytes) and sometimes in amebiasis. Mononuclear cells are found in typhoid fever.
Ulcerative colitis may also be associated with fecal leukocytosis.
Reference Values
Interpretive report
Cautions
Fecal leukocyte examinations cannot be performed on formalin-preserved specimens. Therefore, fresh, ECOFIX-preserved, or polyvinyl alcohol-preserved stool must be sent to the laboratory.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday; Varies
Report Available
1 dayPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester
Test Classification
This test uses a standard method. Its performance characteristics were determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
89055