Question

Peritoneal and pleural fluids should be evaluated for the total nucleated cell count. What is considered to be a normal value for this evaluation?

1) Less than 10,000 nucleated cells/l
2) Less than 100 nucleated cells/l
3) 100,000 nucleated cells/l
4) 50,000 nucleated cells/l

Answer 1

The normal value for total nucleated cell count in peritoneal and pleural fluids is less than 100 nucleated cells/μl. Elevated numbers can indicate medical conditions such as infections or inflammations. Leukocyte and neutrophil counts are key indicators in assessing immune responses and overall health.

Step-by-step explanation:

The normal value for total nucleated cell count in peritoneal and pleural fluids is generally considered to be less than 100 nucleated cells/μl (option 2). Numbers above this range could indicate various medical conditions, including infections, malignancies, or inflammatory diseases. It is crucial to consider that normal ranges can slightly vary based on the laboratory standards and patient demographics.

In the context of cell count, leukocytes or white blood cells play a significant role in the immune response. The absolute number of white blood cells for a healthy individual typically ranges from 3.5 to 11 x 10⁹ cells/L. For instance, an increase in the number of neutrophils can suggest an ongoing infection or inflammation, as neutrophils comprise 50-70 percent of the total leukocyte count and are essential components of the innate immune response.