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Reproductive Immunophenotype
Principle
This test quantitates and analyzes cell surface markers on lymphocyte subsets and other immune cell populations using monoclonal antibodies. The two major classes of lymphocytes include T lymphocytes, which mediate cellular immunity, and B lymphocytes, which are responsible for humoral immunity.
Monoclonal antibodies specific to these cell types and their subsets are conjugated with fluorochromes and incubated with patient lymphocytes. Flow cytometry is then used to determine the percentage of positively stained cells. Results are reported as the percentage of positive lymphocytes; absolute counts are provided when required (e.g., for immunodeficiency profiles).
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Whole blood
Collection
Collect 10–20 mL in green-top (heparin) tubes.
Storage and Transport
- Send at room temperature
- Do not refrigerate
- Deliver to the laboratory within 24 hours
Handling
Mix gently after collection to prevent clotting.
Unacceptable Specimens
- Refrigerated or cold samples
- Specimens shipped on ice
- Extensive clotting or hemolysis
- Samples older than 48 hours
Method
Flow Cytometry.
Normal Range
Refer to laboratory report
Turnaround Time
3 days
Immunophenotype Panels
- CD3 (pan T-cell)
- CD3-CD56+(NK cells)
- CD4 (T-helper)
- CD56+CD16+cells
- CD8 (T-cytotoxic)
- CD19 (B cells)
- CD3+CD56+(NKT)
- %CD19+cells,CD5+
- CD3 / CD25 (IL-2 Receptor)
References
- Lovett, E.J. et al: Application of flow Cytometry to Diagnostic Pathology. Lab. Invest. 50:115, 1984.
- Lane, H.C. and A. Fauci. Immunologic Aspects of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Adv. Host Def. Mech. 5:131, 1985.