Natural Killer Cells Test
Short Name: NK Cells Test
Also known as: NK Cell Count, NK Cell Activity Test, CD3/CD16/CD56 Panel, Natural Killer Cell Enumeration
Natural Killer Cells Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,200. Uses Flow Cytometry on Whole blood / Bone marrow samples. Results in Sample collected daily by 9 am; report same day. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
Overview
The Natural Killer Cells test measures the number and activity of NK cells in blood or bone marrow. It is useful in evaluating immune function in recurrent infections, recurrent pregnancy loss, and suspected NK cell-related malignancies.
- Test Code
- 3513
- Price
- ₹5,200
- Sample Type
- Whole blood / Bone marrow
- Result Time
- Sample collected daily by 9 am; report same day
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Flow Cytometry
Sample Collection
Give brief clinical history. Fasting is not required. Inform the laboratory about medications, recent infections, or chemotherapy.
Method: Venipuncture; bone marrow aspiration if clinically indicated
Laboratory Analysis
A phlebotomist will collect the required whole blood samples in EDTA and sodium heparin tubes using standard aseptic precautions.
Report Delivery
Samples must be shipped immediately at 18-22°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
Timeline: Sample collected daily by 9 am; report same day
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The Natural Killer Cells test measures the number and activity of NK cells in blood or bone marrow. It is useful in evaluating immune function in recurrent infections, recurrent pregnancy loss, and suspected NK cell-related malignancies.
How to Prepare
- Collect 3 mL whole blood in a Lavender Top EDTA tube.
- Collect 3 mL whole blood in a Green Top Sodium Heparin tube.
- Alternatively, collect 2 mL bone marrow in a Green Top Sodium Heparin tube.
- Ship immediately at 18-22°C; do not refrigerate or freeze.
- Write time, date, and clinical details on the test request form.
Doctor's Notes
"Natural Killer cell enumeration by flow cytometry is a valuable adjunct in evaluating immune competence, recurrent pregnancy loss, and certain pediatric malignancies. Results should always be interpreted in light of the complete clinical picture and laboratory reference intervals."
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Clotted whole blood sample
- Insufficient sample volume
- Incorrect anticoagulant or tube
- Refrigerated or frozen sample
- Unlabeled or mislabeled specimen
- Sample not shipped at required temperature
Understanding Your Results
Low NK cell percentage/count
High NK cell percentage/count
Normal NK cell percentage/count
Consult a doctor if you have recurrent infections, chronic fatigue, frequent colds/flu, recurrent pregnancy loss, unexplained fever, or suspected immune deficiency. Do not interpret test results without medical guidance.
Limitations
- ⚠Flow cytometry measures NK cell number and CD3/CD16/CD56 phenotype, not NK cell function.
- ⚠Reference ranges vary between laboratories and methods.
- ⚠Results alone cannot confirm a specific disease and must be correlated clinically.
- ⚠Blood counts can fluctuate due to diurnal and physiological factors.
- ⚠Bone marrow samples may require specialist interpretation.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Mild pain or bruising at venipuncture site
- ●Bone marrow collection requires specialist and may cause discomfort
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent infection or vaccination
- ●Immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapy
- ●Stress, smoking, or recent surgery
- ●Sample refrigeration or delay beyond 24 hours at room temperature
- ●Chemotherapy or radiotherapy
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Frequently Asked Questions
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