CD14, Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About CD14, Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | CD14 Monocytic Cell Marker, Immunophenotyping CD14, Flow Cytometry CD14 |
| Sample Type | Bone Marrow (Sodium Heparin and EDTA tubes) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 3 Days |
| Recommended For | All ages, both genders |
| Price | Starting at ₹2,300 |
What is a CD14, Flow Cytometry Test?
The CD14, flow cytometry test is a specialised laboratory investigation that identifies and measures CD14, a protein marker found on the surface of monocytes and related immune cells. A bone marrow sample is used for this analysis. Doctors typically prescribe this test when a blood disorder or blood cancer is suspected.
It is also referred to as the CD14 Monocytic Cell Marker test or Immunophenotyping CD14.
What Does a CD14, Flow Cytometry Test Measure?
This test analyses CD14 expression on immune cells using a technology called flow cytometry, which measures thousands of cells per second using laser light. The key components examined are listed below.
| Parameter | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| CD14 antigen expression | Identifies cells carrying the CD14 surface marker, mainly monocytes and macrophages |
| Classical monocytes (CD14++CD16-) | The main monocyte population in healthy individuals |
| Intermediate monocytes (CD14++CD16+) | A smaller subset associated with infection and inflammation |
| Non-classical monocytes (CD14+CD16++) | A minor subset involved in immune surveillance |
| GPI-linked CD14 status | Helps identify abnormal clones linked to certain blood disorders |
Why is a CD14, Flow Cytometry Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor needs to evaluate the composition of monocyte populations or investigate suspected blood-related conditions.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Your doctor may recommend a CD14 flow cytometry test if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Unexplained fatigue lasting several weeks
- Recurrent or persistent infections
- Abnormal blood counts were found on a routine test
- Unexplained weight loss
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Night sweats
- Easy bruising or bleeding without an obvious cause
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The CD14, flow cytometry test procedure helps investigate several serious blood-related conditions. These include:
- Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukaemia (CMML), a blood cancer arising from monocyte cells
- Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) with monocytic differentiation
- Monocytic neoplasms, which are blood cancers originating in monocyte-producing cells
- Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH), a rare disorder where blood cells are destroyed abnormally
- Myelodysplastic syndromes, conditions where the bone marrow does not produce blood cells normally
CD14, Flow Cytometry Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
The test is a useful tool for tracking disease progression and treatment response in patients with conditions such as CMML. A classical monocyte fraction of 94% or more of total monocytes is a recognised marker that helps distinguish CMML from non-cancerous causes of raised monocyte counts. Ongoing monitoring using this test helps doctors assess how well treatment is working over time.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparation for this test is straightforward. The key steps and precautions are outlined below.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required before this test. You may eat and drink normally on the day of your appointment.
If your doctor has ordered additional tests alongside this one, some of those may have their own fasting requirements. Check with your doctor in advance.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before attending your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, especially immunosuppressive drugs, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy
- Avoid strenuous physical activity immediately before your appointment
- Continue taking your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise
- Stay well hydrated on the day of the test
Step-by-Step Procedure
The bone marrow sample for this test is collected by a trained specialist. Here is what the process involves:
- Your doctor will review your clinical history and confirm the site for bone marrow collection, usually the hip bone.
- The area is cleaned, and a local anaesthetic is applied to minimise discomfort during the procedure.
- A specialist collects approximately 3 ml of bone marrow into both a Sodium Heparin tube and an EDTA tube.
- The collected sample is labelled and stored at a refrigerated temperature of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for safe transport to the laboratory.
- In the laboratory, the sample is treated with specific antibodies that attach to cells carrying the CD14 marker.
- A flow cytometer uses laser light to analyse the cells, identifying and quantifying CD14-positive populations rapidly.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of your results:
- Delays in sample processing beyond the recommended timeframe
- Incorrect anticoagulant tubes or improper sample handling
- Ongoing chemotherapy or immunotherapy treatment
- Active infections or acute inflammatory conditions at the time of collection
- Improper storage temperature during sample transport
Understanding Your CD14, Flow Cytometry Test Results
Results from this test should always be reviewed by a qualified doctor, preferably a haematologist. The table below outlines general reference values for key parameters.
| Parameter | Typical Range in Healthy Individuals |
|---|---|
| Classical monocytes (CD14++CD16-) | Approximately 85% of the total monocytes |
| CD14++ CD16+ monocytes | Approximately 5% of circulating monocytes that are highly active in both cytokine secretion and antigen presentation |
| CD14+CD16++ monocytes | Approximately 10% of CD14-positive monocytes; these are patrol blood cells that are responsible for tissue repair and antiviral responses |
| GPI-linked CD14 status | Present; absence or deficiency of this could indicate the presence of PNH clones, a rare stem cell disorder |
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 conditions can alter CD14 expression and affect how results are interpreted.
In sepsis, CD14 expression on monocytes is initially elevated, but in severe cases or in patients who do not recover well, it can become significantly reduced. This pattern has clinical significance in assessing prognosis.
Chemotherapy and immunotherapy can lower CD14 levels independently of any underlying disease. Your doctor will account for your current treatment when interpreting your results.
Inflammatory cytokines can trigger the release of a soluble form of CD14 into the bloodstream, and certain immune stimuli can reduce CD14 expression on the cell surface. These shifts are relevant when results are interpreted in context.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While this test is used to investigate specific medical conditions, the following general habits support overall immune health:
- Eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to supply the vitamins and minerals your immune system needs
- Aim for regular moderate exercise and consistent, adequate sleep each night
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as both can negatively affect immune cell function
Lupin Diagnostics CD14, Flow Cytometry Test Price
The CD14, flow cytometry test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹2,300. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre, as home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 2300 |
| CHENNAI | 2300 |
| HYDERABAD | 2300 |
| KOLKATA | 2300 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 2300 |
| PUNE | 2300 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Booking your CD14, flow cytometry test online with Lupin Diagnostics is simple:
- 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
CD14 is a protein found on the surface of monocytes, a type of white blood cell. It plays a key role in recognising bacteria and triggering an immune response. Testing CD14 expression helps doctors identify abnormal monocyte populations linked to blood disorders and certain cancers.
This test is typically ordered for patients with suspected blood cancers such as leukaemia, unexplained high monocyte counts, suspected Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH), or for monitoring treatment response in known haematological conditions. Your doctor will advise whether this test is appropriate for you.
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink as usual before your appointment. If other tests have been ordered at the same time, check with your doctor whether any of those require fasting.
Reports are typically available within 3 days from the date of sample collection at Lupin Diagnostics. Your report will be shared digitally via email or WhatsApp once ready.
Yes. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and certain immunosuppressive drugs can alter CD14 expression levels. Always inform your doctor and the laboratory about any medications or ongoing treatments before the test.
Abnormal results do not confirm a diagnosis on their own. Your doctor will review the findings alongside your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. A haematologist (blood specialist) or immunologist is usually consulted for further evaluation if results are outside normal ranges.
Bone marrow provides a direct view of the cells being produced at their source, which is particularly important when investigating blood cancers or bone marrow disorders. This allows for more precise identification of abnormal cell populations compared to peripheral blood alone in certain clinical situations.
CD14, Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
