CD14 (Monocytic Cell Marker)

The CD14 Monocytic Cell Marker test is a type of blood test used to measure the levels of CD14, a protein found on the surface of white blood cells called monocytes. Monocytes are a type of immune cell that play a crucial role in the body's defense against infection and disease.

The CD14 test is used to help diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions, including:

• bacterial infections, 
• sepsis, and 
• certain autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis

CD14 Monocytic Cell Marker test is also used in research studies to better understand the role of monocytes in various disease processes. A doctor may recommend this test to investigate cell patterns found during microscopy of the blood, lymph nodes, or other tissues. The lab can perform the test via two methods:

• Flow cytometry: The process involves using a laser to check suspended visible cells' size, complexity, and physical properties. These cells are usually labelled with fluorescent monoclonal antibodies. The process is rapid, with an estimated one to two thousand cells analysed every second.
• Immunohistochemistry: The alternate method utilizes the phenotyping method to obtain tissue biopsies.

It is a process in which the labelled cell surface antigens, along with their cellular morphology, can be directly seen under light microscopy.

Apollo 24|7 offers a comprehensive CD14 (monocytic cell marker) test to help in the detection of monocytes, namely lipopolysaccharide, to help confirm the presence of gram-negative bacteria. Some of the symptoms that accompany a gram-negative bacteria infection are:

• Confusion
• High fever, sweats, or chills
• Lack of interest in eating or drinking
• Nausea
• Seizures
• Sensitivity to light
• Severe headache
• Sleepiness

Usually, doctors may suggest the CD14 (monocytic cell marker) test for multiple other reasons as well. Some of them are:

• They can use it to detect residual disease in patients with no clinical evidence of the same. 
• The doctors may request this test to help guide therapy for the corresponding condition.

It is vital to consult a health practitioner if the symptoms exist for more than a few days. Using CD14 as markers, the doctor can then confirm the diagnosis and devise a treatment plan for gram-negative bacteria.