CD11c Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About CD11c Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | CD11c Immunophenotyping, Integrin Alpha X, Hairy Cell Leukaemia (HCL) Marker, NHL Marker, CR4 (Complement Receptor 4) |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; ordered when blood cancer or immune disorders are suspected |
| Price | Starting at ₹2,300 |
What is a CD11c Flow Cytometry Test?
The CD11c flow cytometry test is a specialised laboratory test that identifies and measures the CD11c protein on the surface of immune cells using bone marrow aspirate. It is also known as CD11c Immunophenotyping or the Integrin Alpha X test. Doctors typically order it when a blood cancer or immune disorder is suspected. The test uses a technique called flow cytometry, which analyses thousands of cells rapidly to detect abnormal patterns.
What Does a CD11c Flow Cytometry Test Measure?
The test examines the presence and intensity of CD11c protein expression on immune cells. CD11c pairs with another protein, CD18, to form a complex found on the surface of several immune cell types.
The following cell types are assessed for CD11c expression:
- Monocytes (white blood cells that respond to infection)
- Macrophages (cells that engulf and destroy foreign substances)
- Dendritic cells (cells that activate the immune response)
- Natural killer (NK) cells
- Certain subsets of T and B lymphocytes
The test also evaluates whether the intensity of CD11c expression is dim, moderate, or bright, as this pattern helps doctors identify specific conditions such as hairy cell leukaemia.
Why Is a CD11c Flow Cytometry Test Done?
Doctors order this test to investigate unusual symptoms or to help classify blood-related conditions. It provides detailed information about immune cell behaviour that routine blood tests cannot offer.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Your doctor may recommend the CD11c flow cytometry test if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent, unexplained fatigue
- Recurrent or unusually frequent infections
- Enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands in the neck, armpits, or groin)
- Unexplained bruising or bleeding
- Unintentional weight loss
- Drenching night sweats
- An enlarged spleen (felt as discomfort or fullness in the upper left abdomen)
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The test can help identify or rule out several conditions, including:
- Hairy cell leukaemia (HCL), which shows an abnormally bright CD11c expression alongside other specific markers
- Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL), in which CD11c expression is typically absent or very low
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other B-cell lymphomas
- Autoimmune disorders affecting the immune system
- Certain infections and immune deficiency states
CD11c Flow Cytometry Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
This test is used to detect measurable residual disease (MRD) in patients already diagnosed with hairy cell leukaemia. MRD refers to a small number of cancer cells that may remain after treatment. Achieving MRD negativity is associated with long-lasting complete responses. Flow cytometry with CD11c and related markers also helps track how well a patient is responding to treatment for other blood cancers.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test, but arriving informed and relaxed makes the process smoother.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required before the CD11c flow cytometry test. You may eat and drink as normal before your appointment. Follow any additional instructions given by your treating doctor.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following in mind before your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history file, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any family history of blood disorders, as this is required for the test.
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, as some drugs can affect CD11c expression and test results.
- Mention any ongoing infections or other known health conditions to your doctor before the test.
- Stay well hydrated before your visit.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
Step-by-Step Procedure
This test requires a bone marrow aspirate sample. The CD11c flow cytometry test procedure is performed at a Lupin Diagnostics centre by trained medical staff.
The bone marrow aspirate is collected as follows:
- You will be asked to lie in a specific position. The skin over the collection site (usually the hip bone) is cleaned, and a local anaesthetic is applied to reduce discomfort.
- A trained doctor inserts a special needle into the bone marrow space and draws out a small amount of bone marrow fluid (approximately 3 ml).
- The sample is collected into two specially labelled tubes — one containing sodium heparin (green top) and one containing EDTA (lavender top) — to preserve the cells.
- The site is cleaned, and a small dressing is applied. You may feel some soreness afterwards, which usually settles within a day or two.
- The sample is stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and dispatched to the laboratory promptly.
- In the laboratory, cells are labelled with fluorescent antibodies that attach to the CD11c protein and analysed using a flow cytometer, which passes each cell through a laser beam and records its fluorescence signal.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may affect the reliability of your results:
- Delayed sample processing (ideally, the sample should be processed as soon as possible after collection)
- Use of the wrong anticoagulant tube
- Ongoing infections at the time of collection
- Certain medications, including some anticoagulants, which may interfere with CD marker staining
- Underlying health conditions affecting immune cell populations
Understanding Your CD11c Flow Cytometry Test Results
Results from the CD11c flow cytometry test are qualitative and must always be reviewed by a specialist. The table below provides a general guide to interpreting CD11c expression.
| Parameter | Expected Pattern | Possible Significance |
|---|---|---|
| CD11c Expression | Positive on monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and some lymphocytes | Normal immune cell population |
| Abnormally bright CD11c | Bright expression on B cells (with CD20, CD22, CD25, CD103) | Suggestive of hairy cell leukaemia |
| Absent or very dim CD11c | Negative on blast cells | Suggestive of acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain circumstances can alter CD11c expression and affect how results are read.
Patients receiving ATRA (all-trans retinoic acid) therapy for APL may show CD11c positivity even though untreated APL cells are typically CD11c negative. This shift is a known treatment effect and does not indicate a new or worsening condition.
Ongoing infections and certain anticoagulants used during sample collection can also influence CD11c staining, which is why clinical history and medication details are essential for accurate interpretation.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
CD11c expression reflects immune cell activity and is not directly controlled through lifestyle. However, general measures that support a healthy immune system include:
- Eating a balanced diet with adequate vitamins and minerals
- Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol intake
- Attending regular health check-ups, especially if you have a family history of blood cancers or immune disorders
Lupin Diagnostics CD11c Flow Cytometry Test Price
The CD11c flow cytometry test is available at Lupin Diagnostics centres starting at ₹2,300. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre, as home collection is not available due to the specialised nature of the sample and the need for prompt processing.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 2300 |
| CHENNAI | 2300 |
| HYDERABAD | 2300 |
| KOLKATA | 2300 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 2300 |
| PUNE | 2300 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Follow these steps to book your CD11c flow cytometry test:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CD11c flow cytometry test helps identify and measure the CD11c protein on immune cells from a bone marrow sample. It is primarily used to diagnose and monitor blood cancers such as hairy cell leukaemia and acute promyelocytic leukaemia, as well as immune disorders. The pattern and intensity of CD11c expression give doctors important information about the nature of abnormal cells.
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. Follow any specific instructions from your treating doctor, and make sure to bring your clinical history on the day of the test.
Yes, the CD11c flow cytometry test is one of the key tools used to identify hairy cell leukaemia. Malignant hairy cells show an abnormally bright CD11c expression alongside other specific markers such as CD20, CD22, CD25, and CD103. This distinct pattern allows specialists to differentiate hairy cell leukaemia from other similar conditions.
Results for this test are typically available within 3 days at Lupin Diagnostics. Processing time may vary slightly depending on sample quality and laboratory workload. You will receive your report digitally once it is ready.
This test requires a bone marrow aspirate, which is a specialised procedure that must be performed by a trained doctor in a clinical setting. The sample also requires careful handling and prompt dispatch to the laboratory. For these reasons, home collection is not available.
If your CD11c flow cytometry test results are abnormal, consult the doctor who ordered the test. They may refer you to a haematologist (a specialist in blood disorders) or an immunologist for further evaluation. Do not attempt to interpret the results on your own, as they must be read alongside your full clinical picture.
The bone marrow aspirate procedure involves a needle insertion, which may cause temporary discomfort or soreness at the site. Any pain generally subsides within 1 to 2 days. The procedure is performed by trained medical staff under local anaesthesia, and serious complications are rare. Your doctor will explain the procedure in detail before it begins.
CD11c Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
