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Natural Killer Cells Test
Also known as: Natural Killer cells, EDTA Blood
No special precautions
Sample Type
Blood
Recommended for
Male, Female
Report
Within 48 Hours
Blood test at Home
NABL & CAP Accredited Labs
Accurate & Quality Test Reports
Trusted by Leading Doctors & Hospitals
Natural Killer cells, EDTA Blood Details in Brief
| Also Known As | NK Cell Count Test, CD16/CD56 Test, NK Cell Activity Test |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To assess the number and activity of natural killer (NK) cells that help defend against infections and cancer |
| Preparation | No special preparation required |
| Fasting | Fasting not required |
| Reporting Time | Next day |
| Cost | 4,330 |
What is a Natural Killer Cells Test?
The Natural Killer (NK) Cells Test is a blood test that measures the number and proportion of natural killer cells, a subset of lymphocytes that forms part of the innate immune system. NK cells are involved in early immune defence by identifying and destroying virus-infected cells and abnormal (including malignant) cells.
The test typically identifies NK cells using flow cytometry by detecting characteristic surface markers, most commonly CD16 and CD56. Results are reported as a percentage of lymphocytes and as an absolute NK cell count.
This test supports evaluation and monitoring in immune dysregulation, recurrent or unusual infections, certain malignancy or post-transplant contexts, and selected reproductive assessments (e.g., recurrent pregnancy loss or repeated implantation failure), as advised by a clinician.
What Does a Natural Killer Cells Test Measure?
The test evaluates NK cells along with related lymphocyte markers for context:
- CD3 Percentage: Proportion of T-cells among lymphocytes, used for immune balance comparison.
- Absolute CD3 Count: Absolute T-cell count, supporting broader immune profiling.
- CD (16+56) Percent: Percentage of NK cells among lymphocytes.
- CD (16+56) Absolute Cell Count: Absolute number of NK cells in the blood.
- Population Gated: The specific lymphocyte population selected (“gated”) during flow cytometry analysis to improve measurement accuracy.
Natural Killer Cells Test: Who Needs It and Why It’s Done
What Symptoms May Call for a Natural Killer Cells Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience:
- Recurrent infections (viral or bacterial)
- Unexplained chronic fatigue or low immunity
- Repeated miscarriages or failed IVF cycles (as part of a broader evaluation)
- Symptoms suggestive of autoimmune disease or immune deficiency
- Chronic viral infections (e.g., HIV, hepatitis C), where immune profiling is clinically relevant
Who Should Get a Natural Killer Cells Test?
This test is often considered for:
- Individuals with recurrent, severe, or unusual infections
- Patients undergoing immune monitoring in cancer therapy or post-transplant care
- People with suspected primary immunodeficiency disorders
- Selected fertility patients when immune factors are being assessed by a specialist
Why is a Natural Killer Cells Test Done?
The test helps assess immune system status by evaluating NK cell levels and related lymphocyte subsets. It may support:
- Diagnosis of immune deficiency or immune dysregulation
- Monitoring immune recovery/suppression during chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or after transplant
- Clinical correlation in certain reproductive medicine evaluations, where indicated
Importance of a Natural Killer Cells Test
NK cells contribute to early immune surveillance and tumour control. Abnormal NK cell counts may reflect immune suppression, immune activation, or redistribution due to stress, infection, inflammation, or medication effects. Interpretation should always be performed in conjunction with symptoms, clinical history, and other laboratory findings.
Natural Killer Cells Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare
How to Book the Natural Killer Cells Test and Get Your Reports?
- Book Online Easily
Schedule via the Metropolis Healthcare website or app and select the Natural Killer Cells Test. - Safe Home Sample Collection
A trained phlebotomist collects blood in an EDTA vial using sterile technique. - Sample Tracking
Track sample status through the Metropolis portal/app. - Accurate Laboratory Testing
Testing is performed using flow cytometry in NABL & CAP accredited laboratories. - Quick Reports
Reports are typically available by the next day and delivered via email/WhatsApp and through the app.
Is Home Sample Collection for Natural Killer Cells Test Available Near You?
Yes. Home sample collection is available for Natural Killer Cells Test
How Long Does It Take to Get a Natural Killer Cells Test Report?
Reports are typically available by the next day after your sample reaches the laboratory.
Note: Reporting time and cost may vary by location.
Where Can I See or Get Natural Killer Cells Test Results?
You can access your reports via the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. Reports may also be delivered via email or WhatsApp, and a printed copy can be collected from a Metropolis lab if required.
Interpreting Natural Killer Cells Test Results
|
Parameter |
Normal Range |
Low Values May Indicate |
High Values May Indicate |
|
CD3 Percentage |
55–81% |
Low T-cell levels or immune deficiency |
Immune activation |
|
CD(16+56) Percent |
5.6–31% |
Low NK cell count; reduced immune defence |
Immune hyperactivity or inflammation |
|
CD(16+56) Absolute Count |
173–1392 cells/cu.mm |
Weak immune function, higher viral susceptibility |
Possible immune stimulation or stress response |
Note: Results must be interpreted in the context of clinical history, current infections, medications, and other immune markers.
How Should You Prepare for a Natural Killer Cells Test?
- Fasting is not required; you can eat and drink normally.
- Avoid strenuous exercise immediately before sampling, as it can transiently change circulating lymphocyte distributions.
- Inform your doctor about medications (e.g., steroids, immunosuppressants, chemotherapy) that may affect immune cell counts.
- Ensure blood is collected in an EDTA tube, as specified for flow cytometry.
How Is a Natural Killer Cells Test Done? (Step-by-Step Procedure)
- Preparation: A tourniquet is applied to the upper arm.
- Cleaning: The puncture site is disinfected.
- Sample Collection: Approximately 3 ml of blood is drawn into an EDTA vacutainer.
- Processing: The laboratory performs flow cytometry to identify NK cells using CD16/CD56 markers and reports both % and absolute counts.
- Reporting: Results are reviewed and issued with reference ranges for interpretation.
Factors That May Influence Natural Killer Cells Test Results
- Recent infection or vaccination
- Acute stress, sleep deprivation, or intense physical exertion
- Immunosuppressive medications (steroids, biologics) or chemotherapy
- Autoimmune disease activity or malignancy-related immune changes
- Nutritional deficiencies or chronic systemic illness
Diseases That a Natural Killer Cells Test Can Help Detect
- Primary immunodeficiency syndromes (as part of broader immune work-up)
- Immune changes in chronic viral infections (e.g., HIV, hepatitis C, EBV)
- Cancer and leukaemia immune response monitoring
- Autoimmune or inflammatory disorders (supportive, not standalone)
- Selected reproductive immune assessments (recurrent miscarriage/implantation failure), where clinically indicated
- Transplant immune monitoring (supportive, per clinician protocol)
Natural Killer Cells Test Price in Different Cities
The cost of a Natural Killer Cells Test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate price range for the Natural Killer Cells Test at Metropolis Healthcare in major Indian cities:
|
City |
Approximate Cost (INR) |
|
₹ 4,300 to ₹ 5,000 |
|
|
₹ 4,300 to ₹ 5,000 |
|
|
₹ 4,300 to ₹ 5,000 |
|
|
₹ 4,300 to ₹ 5,000 |
The Natural Killer Cells Test cost may vary depending on the city and the specific tests included in the panel. However, Metropolis Healthcare offers competitive Natural Killer Cells Test prices across major cities in India.
References
- Vivier E., et al. (2008). Functions of natural killer cells. Nature Immunology, 9(5), 503–510. PMID: 18425107
- Shakhar K., et al. (2010). Role of natural killer cells in health and disease. Annual Review of Immunology, 28, 405–432. PMID: 20078220
- Moffett A., & Colucci F. (2014). Uterine NK cells: Active regulators at the maternal-fetal interface. Nature Reviews Immunology, 14(6), 471–484. PMID: 24925117
- Orange J.S. (2002). Human natural killer cell deficiencies and susceptibility to infection. Microbes and Infection, 4(15), 1545–1558. PMID: 12505528
Natural Killer cells, EDTA Blood Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Natural Killer cells, EDTA Blood with a clear pricing structure.
The Natural Killer cells, EDTA Blood Price in Vizag is ₹ 4,330 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
It measures the number and percentage of NK cells (CD16/CD56) in blood to support assessment of immune function.
No, fasting is not required.
In selected cases, NK cell levels/activity may be assessed as part of an immune evaluation in recurrent miscarriage or implantation failure, based on specialist advice.
Yes. Physical or emotional stress and intense exercise can transiently alter circulating immune cell counts and distributions.
Flow cytometry, which identifies NK cells using CD16 and CD56 markers and reports percentage and absolute count.
When CD(16+56) falls below 5.6% or the absolute NK cell count is below 173 cells/cu.mm (lab reference ranges may vary).
Abnormal results may be associated with immune deficiency, immune activation/inflammation, chronic viral infections, malignancy-related immune changes, or medication effects; interpretation requires clinical correlation.
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We offer a comprehensive range of 4000+ clinical laboratory tests and profiles, which are used for prediction, early detection, diagnostic screening, confirmation and/or monitoring of the disease.
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