Lamellar Body Count

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Amniotic fluid lamellar body counts, LBC
Laboratory	Core Laboratory & Transfusion Medicine
Sub-section	Hematology
Specimen Type	Fluid
Test Code	LBCNT

Ordering Instructions, Requisition

Special Lab Requisition (MS 331)

Clinical Significance

Lamellar bodies are concentrically-layered structures produced by Type II pneumocytes. They consist almost entirely of phospholipids and represent the storage form of pulmonary
surfactant.
As the fetal lung matures, increased lamellar body production is reflected by an increase in amniotic fluid (AF) phospholipids and the L/S (lecithin-sphingomyelin) ratio.
The lamellar body count is obtained by analyzing the AF sample with a cell counter and recording the platelet count.

Specimen Requirements (Sample Type)

Amniotic Fluid

Specimen Requirements (Volume (mL))

1-5 mL

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

Sterile Container

CollectionContainers

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: N/A

Fridge: N/A

Freezer: N/A

Must be sent to lab immediately for processing

24 hours at room temperature

Cause for Rejection

Specimen Acceptability and Transport Guidance

Instrument, Methodology

Automated

Test Availability

24 hours, 7 days/week.

STAT Turnaround Time

1 hour

Routine Turnaround Time

2 hours

Reference Ranges

Lamellar Body Count <15 x 10E9/L:
Low range

Lamellar Body Count 15 to 40 x 10E9/L:
Moderate range

Lamellar Body Count >40 x 10E9/L:
High Range-probably mature fetal lung. In case of discrepancies, always interpret results using reference ranges as stated on laboratory reports and/or electronic patient chart.

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 Extension 4688