Description
This blood test measures Natural Killer (NK) cells—a critical part of your immune system—to assess how well your body can fight off infections and abnormal cells. It is especially useful for evaluating immune function in individuals with frequent infections, chronic illness, or suspected immune deficiencies.
What This Test Measures
- % CD16+CD56+ NK Cells
- Indicates the proportion of NK cells among total lymphocytes.
- CD16+CD56+ NK Cell Count
- Shows the absolute number of NK cells in your blood.
- Lymphocyte Count
- Measures your total lymphocyte level to help evaluate your overall immune health.
What Are Natural Killer Cells?
NK cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in your body’s innate immune system. They act quickly to identify and destroy virus-infected cells, cancer cells, and other abnormal cells—often before symptoms appear.
Key Functions of NK Cells
- First-Line Defense: React quickly without prior exposure to a virus or pathogen.
- Destroy Abnormal Cells: Use specialized proteins to break down harmful cells.
- Immune Communication: Release cytokines to guide and regulate broader immune responses.
- Immune Memory (Emerging Research): Some NK cells can "remember" past threats and respond faster the next time.
Why You Might Need This Test
This test may be recommended if you:
- Experience frequent or unexplained infections
- Have a chronic viral illness
- Are being evaluated for immune disorders or immune suppression
- Are undergoing immunotherapy or cancer treatment
How It Works
- Sample Type: Blood draw
- Preparation: No fasting required
Clinical Insights
- Low NK Cell Levels may indicate reduced immune response or chronic immune suppression.
- Elevated or Abnormal NK Activity could signal autoimmune activity or immune system imbalance.
