Natural Killer Cell and Natural Killer T-Cell Panel

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR31161Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 2013805CPT Codes 86356, 86357, 86359

Natural Killer Cell and Natural Killer T-Cell Panel

Also known as: NK/NKT

Clinical Use

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Use

The Natural Killer Cell and Natural Killer T-Cell Panel is used to enumerate NK- and NKT-cell populations. NK cells are critical components of the innate immune system, known for their ability to target and destroy virally infected cells and tumor cells. This test is significant in evaluating various immunologic abnormalities characterized by either increased or decreased NK cell populations. NK-like T cells exhibit properties of both T-cells and NK cells. This panel assists in the clinical assessment but is not used as part of the diagnostic criteria for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH).

Special Instructions

This test requires whole blood collected in Lavender (EDTA) or Pink (K2EDTA) tubes. Specimens must be analyzed within 48 hours of collection to ensure accuracy, as the test components are sensitive to temperature and timing.

Limitations

The test is not a NK-cell activity assay and should not be used as part of the diagnostic criteria for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). NK and NKT cell enumeration by flow cytometry does not provide full functional or activity profiles of the cells. Additionally, this test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by ARUP Laboratories but has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, being classified as a Laboratory Developed Test (LDT) for clinical purposes.

Test Details

New York Approved