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LYMPHOCYTE SUBSET PANEL WITH NK CELLS
The Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells measures various lymphocyte subsets, including T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells.
The Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells provides valuable insights into the immune system’s functionality and can assist in diagnosing immunodeficiencies, monitoring immune status in various diseases, and evaluating responses to therapies.
For patients battling recurrent infections or autoimmune diseases, or undergoing therapies like chemotherapy, the Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells (Panel-1) offers critical insights into immune function.
Why The Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells (Panel-1) Matters
Your immune system relies on a balanced army of lymphocytes to fight infections and prevent autoimmune attacks. The Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells (Panel-1) helps:
- Diagnose primary or secondary immunodeficiencies (e.g., HIV, genetic disorders).
- Monitor immune recovery post-chemotherapy or stem cell transplants.
- Evaluate autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Assess chronic viral infections (e.g., COVID-19 long-haulers).
For patients, this means less guesswork and targeted interventions to restore immune balance.
What the Test Measures
The panel breaks down critical lymphocyte populations:
- T Cells (CD3+/CD4+/CD8+):
- CD4+ (Helper T cells): Coordinate immune responses; low levels signal HIV progression.
- CD8+ (Cytotoxic T cells): Destroy infected or cancerous cells.
- B Cells (CD19+): Produce antibodies; abnormalities suggest autoimmune or immunodeficiency disorders.
- Natural Killer (NK) Cells (CD16+/CD56+): Combat viruses and tumors; low levels correlate with recurrent infections.
Patient Insight: Results include absolute counts and percentages, compared to age-adjusted reference ranges for accuracy.
Who Should Get Tested?
- Patients with unexplained infections (e.g., frequent pneumonia, fungal infections).
- Individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, multiple sclerosis).
- Cancer patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapies.
- Those with suspected HIV/AIDS or chronic viral infections.
- Post-vaccination immune response evaluation.
The testing process
Patient Experience:
- Blood Draw: A single vial of blood is collected (fasting not required).
- Lab Analysis: Flow cytometry precisely counts lymphocyte subsets.
- Results: Available in 3–5 days, reviewed with your doctor.
Lab Protocol:
- Samples must be processed within 24 hours to ensure cell viability.
- Strict quality controls align with CLIA guidelines.
Interpreting Results
- Low CD4+ Counts: May indicate HIV progression or immunodeficiency.
- Elevated B Cells: Linked to autoimmune flares or leukemia.
- NK Cell Deficiency: Associated with recurrent viral infections or cancer risk.
Example Case:
A 2022 Journal of Clinical Immunology study found that 30% of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome had abnormal NK cell activity, guiding tailored immunotherapy.
Patient-Centered Benefits
- Personalized Treatment Plans
Adjust medications (e.g., IVIG for deficiencies) based on your immune profile. - Early Intervention
Detect immune issues before severe complications arise. - Peace of Mind
Track immune recovery during cancer remission or post-transplant.
Why Trust This Panel?
- FDA-approved methodology is simplified and comfortable for patients (flow cytometry ensures precision).
- IT is precise, and test results are obtained quickly.
- Endorsed by Kenya’s KMLTTB Board of Laboratory Regulation.
Conditions or Diseases that Require the Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells
- HIV/AIDS: Changes in CD4+ and CD8+ T cell numbers are crucial indicators of HIV disease progression and treatment response.
- Certain Cancers: Like lymphomas or leukemias.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system might be overactive.
- Primary or Secondary Immunodeficiencies: Where there’s a suspected inherent weakness in the immune system or an acquired one due to medications or other conditions.
Patient Preparation/Instructions
- Specimen Type: A blood sample is required, typically collected in a lavender top (EDTA) tube.
- Volume: A preferred volume of 3 to 5 mL is needed, with a minimum of 1 mL acceptable.
- Transport: Samples should be transported at room temperature and tested within 24 hours of collection to ensure accuracy.
Figure 1.0: A practitioner performing the Lymphocyte Subset Panel test with NK Cells.
Reference Values for Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells Test
Reference ranges can vary by laboratory but generally include:
- CD4 Count: 33-61% of total lymphocytes
- CD8 Count: 14-35% of total lymphocytes
- NK Cell Count (CD56): Varies based on individual health status
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room temperature | Yellow-top (ACD-A) or (ACD-B) tube: 2 days
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube: 1 day |
| Refrigerated | Unstable |
| Frozen | Unstable |
| Freeze/thaw cycles | Unstable |
Turnaround Time for Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells
Results for the Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells typically take about 3 days to process, depending on the laboratory.
How To Order the Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells
Please click the ‘Order Test’ button and put the immunofluorescence analysis in Michel’s medium in your cart.
You are welcome to visit our laboratory in Kilimani, Nairobi.
This will initiate the process for obtaining your test.
FAQs for the Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells (Panel-1).
Q1: Is this test painful?
A: Only a brief pinch during the blood draw—no lasting discomfort.
Q2: How do I prepare?
A: No special preparation is needed. Stay hydrated for easier blood collection.
Q3: Can stress affect results?
A: Acute stress may temporarily alter counts; chronic immune impacts are rare.
Q4. What is the primary objective of the Lymphocyte Subset Panel 1 Test?
The Lymphocyte Subset Panel with NK Cells primarily aims to measure and provide a count of different types of white blood cells, specifically T cells, B cells, and NK (natural killer) cells, which play a vital role in the body’s immune response.
Q5. When is the lymphocyte subset panel with NK cells test typically ordered by physicians?
The test is often ordered when a physician suspects an immune deficiency or an imbalance in the types of lymphocytes, especially in conditions like HIV/AIDS, certain types of leukemia, or following organ transplantation.
REFERENCE
http://www.labcorp.com/tests/505370/t-and-b-lymphocyte-and-natural-killer-cell-profilehttp://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Overview/9336http://testdirectory.questdiagnostics.com/test/test-detail/7197/lymphocyte-subset-panel-1?cc=MASTER