LYMPHOCYTE SUBSET ANALYSIS (LSSA) WITH NK CELLS

Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) with NK Cells: Price, Purpose, Range & Reports

Test Overview

The Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) with NK Cells is a sophisticated and detailed laboratory test that provides a comprehensive snapshot of the body's cellular immune system. It goes beyond a standard white blood cell count by precisely identifying and quantifying the different types of lymphocytes: B cells, T cells (helper and suppressor), and Natural Killer (NK) cells.

These cells are the commandos of the immune system, each with a specialised role in defending the body against infections, identifying cancerous cells, and regulating overall immune responses. An imbalance or deficiency in any of these subsets can be a vital indicator of underlying immune deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, chronic infections (such as HIV), or certain blood cancers. The LSSA with NK Cells test uses advanced technology called flow cytometry to provide absolute counts and percentages for each subset, allowing clinicians to accurately diagnose and monitor a wide range of immunologically driven conditions.

Understanding the Components of LSSA

The comprehensive Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) panel comprises 12 essential diagnostic tests that collectively provide a detailed, nuanced understanding of the various lymphocyte populations in the immune system. Each component of the panel is characterised by unique clusters of differentiation (CD) markers; specific proteins found on the surface of immune cells that help identify and distinguish between different types of lymphocytes, such as T-cells, B-cells, and Natural Killer (NK) cells. This precise classification enables clinicians to assess immune function with greater accuracy and depth.

The Critical Role of the CD4/CD8 Ratio

The ratio of CD4+ T-helper cells to CD8+ cytotoxic T cells is arguably the most clinically significant result derived from the LSSA.In a healthy person, the balance between two important types of immune cells, CD4 and CD8, is measured using the CD4/CD8 ratio.

• Normal Range: This ratio usually falls between 1.0 and 2.5. If your ratio falls within this range, it generally indicates that your immune system is functioning well. A higher or lower ratio may indicate an immune issue, and your doctor may suggest further tests or treatment based on the results.
• Low Ratio (CD8 high): Can indicate an active viral infection (e.g., CMV, EBV), immunosuppression, or advanced HIV infection.
• High Ratio (CD4 high): Often associated with autoimmune conditions (such as Lupus or Rheumatoid Arthritis) or certain lymphoproliferative disorders.

Clinical Applications and Purpose of the Test

The LSSA with NK Cells is a powerful diagnostic tool, used when a comprehensive assessment of cellular immunity is required.

1. Diagnosis and Monitoring of HIV/AIDS

This is one of the most common and vital uses of the LSSA. The test tracks the decline of the CD4+ T-helper cell count, which is the hallmark of HIV progression.

• Diagnosis: Establishing the initial degree of immune damage at the time of diagnosis.
• Treatment Initiation: CD4 counts guide the decision on when to initiate anti-retroviral therapy (ART).
• Monitoring: Regular LSSA tests monitor the effectiveness of ART, confirming that the CD4 count is rising and the immune system is recovering.

2. Primary and Secondary Immunodeficiency

The test is essential for diagnosing inherited (primary) and acquired (secondary) immune system disorders.

• Primary Immunodeficiencies: The absence or extremely low levels of specific subsets (e.g., T-cells) can point towards rare genetic conditions like Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) or DiGeorge syndrome.
• Secondary Immunodeficiencies: Helps identify immune suppression due to cancer treatments (chemotherapy/radiotherapy), organ transplantation, or long-term high-dose steroid use.

3. Evaluation of Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissues. An LSSA can reveal characteristic patterns of imbalance.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Patients often exhibit abnormal CD4/CD8 ratios and sometimes activated B-cell (CD19+) populations, guiding the use of immune-modulating drugs.

4. Oncology and Haematology (Cancers)

Lymphocyte subsets are critical in cancer immunology:

• Monitoring Immunotherapies: The test monitors how the immune system (particularly NK and cytotoxic T-cells) responds to novel cancer treatments like checkpoint inhibitors.
• Leukaemia and Lymphoma Diagnosis: Abnormal populations of B-cells (CD19+) or T-cells (CD3+) can indicate lymphoproliferative disorders, such as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). The LSSA is often the first step in immunophenotyping to classify the exact type of blood cancer.

5. Assessment of Chronic Infections

Persistent or unusual infections often prompt an LSSA to check if the immune system is effectively marshalling its defence. Changes in CD8+ counts (often elevated) can indicate the body is fighting a chronic viral infection (e.g., Hepatitis C, Epstein-Barr Virus).

What is the Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) with NK Cells Test Price?

The Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) with NK Cells test price reflects the advanced laboratory techniques used, typically flow cytometry, a high-precision technology that can identify and quantify specific cell populations based on their surface markers.

Because this test requires sophisticated instruments, specialised reagents, and expert analysis, the cost is generally higher than routine blood tests.

The final cost may vary depending on your location, the technology and reagents used, and whether it is performed as part of a broader immunological evaluation.

For the most accurate and current Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) with NK Cells test cost near you, please visit the Apollo 24|7 platform for updated pricing and availability.

Test Procedure and Flow Cytometry Explained

The LSSA with NK Cells is a highly specialised laboratory procedure that requires only a single blood sample.

Patient Preparation Guidance

• Fasting: Fasting is not generally required for this test.
• Medication: It is crucial to inform your doctor about all current medications, as some treatments (especially corticosteroids or immunosuppressants) can significantly impact lymphocyte counts. The test should be timed appropriately according to your medication schedule.
• Sample Type: A standard venous blood draw is collected into a tube containing an anticoagulant (usually EDTA).

The Technology: Flow Cytometry

Flow cytometry is the high-tech method used to perform the LSSA. It is essential for analysing thousands of cells very rapidly:

• Staining: Lymphocytes in the blood sample are mixed with specific antibodies tagged with fluorescent dyes. Each antibody recognises a different CD marker (e.g., CD4, CD8, CD19).
• Counting: The sample is injected into a flow cytometer, which forces the cells to pass single-file through a laser beam.
• Detection: When the laser hits a cell, the fluorescent dye on the attached antibodies is excited, emitting light. Detectors measure the colour and intensity of this light.
• Analysis: The pattern of fluorescent light allows the machine to identify and count, with extreme precision, exactly how many cells are T-helper cells (CD4+), cytotoxic cells (CD8+), B-cells (CD19+), and NK cells.

Detailed Interpretation of Results

The final report provides both absolute counts (cells per microlitre of blood) and percentages for each subset, along with reference ranges for healthy individuals.

Key Interpretation Points

Important Note: An LSSA result must never be interpreted in isolation. It is one component of a larger clinical picture and must be reviewed by a physician, preferably an immunologist or haematologist, in conjunction with the patient's full medical history and physical examination.

Booking Your Assessment with Apollo 24|7

Understanding your immune system’s status is a crucial step towards effective diagnosis and treatment. The Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) with NK Cells offers the precision necessary for this assessment.

Your Path to Precision Diagnostics

1. Easy Booking: Locate the Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) with NK Cells test on our platform and book your appointment conveniently online.
2. Professional Collection: Our certified phlebotomists will perform the necessary blood draw efficiently at your home or at a nearby collection centre, ensuring the sample is correctly handled for the complex flow cytometry analysis.
3. Secure Results: Receive a detailed, comprehensive report directly to your Apollo 24|7 account, providing your physician with the critical data needed to manage your health with confidence.

Conclusion

The Lymphocyte Subset Analysis (LSSA) with Natural Killer (NK) Cells is one of the most trusted tests to check how strong your immune system is. It helps doctors understand if your body is able to fight infections properly. This test is especially useful if you are dealing with long-term health problems, falling sick often, or if your doctor thinks your immunity might be weak. The test gives a clear picture of important white blood cells, T-cells, B-cells, and NK cells that protect your body. With this information, doctors can find out what’s wrong and decide the best treatment for you. Apollo 24|7 uses the latest machines and expert labs to give you fast and correct results. This helps your doctor take the right steps without delay. For reliable testing and better care, trust Apollo 24|7.