CD15, Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About CD15, Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | CD15 Myeloid Cell Marker, Lewis X Antigen, LeuM1, SSEA-1 |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; primarily for patients with suspected blood cancers |
| Price | Starting at ₹2,300 |
What Is a CD15, Flow Cytometry Test?
The CD15, flow cytometry test identifies the presence and level of the CD15 marker on cells in a bone marrow sample. CD15, also known as the Lewis X antigen, is a sugar-based molecule found on the surface of certain white blood cells. Doctors order this test when they suspect blood cancers such as Hodgkin lymphoma or acute leukaemia. It is also known as the CD15 Myeloid Cell Marker test or LeuM1 test.
What Does a CD15, Flow Cytometry Test Measure?
This test uses a technique called flow cytometry to identify and count cells that carry the CD15 marker. A specialised machine analyses the bone marrow sample and reports which cells express CD15 and in what proportion.
The table below summarises what the test evaluates:
| Component | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| CD15 expression | Whether CD15 is present (positive) or absent (negative) on cells |
| Percentage of CD15-positive cells | The proportion of cells carrying this marker within a sample |
| CD15+CD117+ cells | Co-expression of two markers used to detect minimal residual disease in AML |
| Cell type identification | Whether CD15 appears on expected cell types (granulocytes, monocytes) or unexpected ones (lymphocytes, blast cells) |
CD15 is normally found on mature granulocytes (infection-fighting white blood cells), eosinophils, monocytes, and mast cells. It is not normally present on red blood cells, platelets, or lymphocytes.
Why Is a CD15, Flow Cytometry Test Done?
Doctors order the CD15 flow cytometry test to investigate abnormal blood cell behaviour or to monitor a known blood condition. Below are the main reasons it may be requested.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Several symptoms may prompt a doctor to request this test:
- Unexplained fatigue that does not improve with rest
- Recurrent fever without an obvious cause
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands in the neck, armpits, or groin)
- Persistent infections that do not resolve normally
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test helps investigate several blood-related conditions:
- Classical Hodgkin lymphoma, where CD15 is a key diagnostic marker
- Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), where CD15 expression on blast cells aids diagnosis and prognosis
- B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL), particularly cases with myeloid marker expression
- Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), where reduced CD15 expression is associated with disease progression
CD15, Flow Cytometry Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
The CD15 flow cytometry test plays an important role in tracking minimal residual disease (MRD) in patients with AML. Doctors monitor the proportion of CD15+CD117+ cells during and after treatment to assess how well the disease is responding. Research shows that a persistently high MRD level is linked to shorter remission, while a well-reduced MRD level is associated with longer remission.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is required before a CD15, flow cytometry test. The sections below explain what to do before your appointment and what happens during sample collection.
Do You Need to Fast?
No. Fasting is not required for this test. You may eat and drink normally before your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
A few simple steps will help ensure an accurate result:
- 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
- Avoid strenuous physical activity on the day of the test
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your arm or hip area
- Stay well hydrated unless your doctor advises otherwise
Step-by-Step Procedure
This test requires a bone marrow sample in either sodium heparin solution or EDTA. Your doctor will explain which type of collection is appropriate for your situation. Here is what to expect:
Bone Marrow Collection:
- A healthcare professional will clean and numb the skin over your hip bone using a local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort.
- A thin needle is carefully inserted into the bone marrow space, and a small amount of aspirate (approximately 3 ml) is withdrawn.
- The sample is collected into two tubes: one containing sodium heparin (green top) and one containing EDTA (lavender top).
- The collection site is covered with a small dressing. The procedure is brief, and you can usually go home shortly afterwards.
- The samples are labelled, stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, and transported to the laboratory for processing.
- In the laboratory, the sample is treated with fluorescently tagged antibodies and passed through the flow cytometer, which counts and categorises the cells based on laser light scatter.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors may influence the reliability of your results:
- Sample processing delays beyond 36 hours, which can affect cell viability
- Use of an incorrect anticoagulant tube at collection
- Inadequate sample volume
- Certain medications, including granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), can reduce CD15 expression on neutrophils
- Acute allergic conditions, which may alter CD15 expression levels
- Improper sample storage or transport at incorrect temperatures
Understanding Your CD15, Flow Cytometry Test Results
Results from this test require careful interpretation by a specialist haematopathologist (a doctor who studies blood diseases). The table below provides a general guide to what results may indicate.
| Parameter | Expected Finding | Possible Significance if Abnormal |
|---|---|---|
| CD15 expression on granulocytes and monocytes | Positive (normal) | Loss may suggest MDS progression or immature cell phenotype |
| CD15 expression on lymphocytes or blast cells | Negative (normal) | Positive result may indicate AML, Hodgkin lymphoma, or B-ALL |
| CD15+CD117+ cells in bone marrow | 0.00% to 0.08% | Higher levels may indicate residual leukaemic disease |
| CD15 with CD30 co-expression | Not expected | May suggest classical Hodgkin lymphoma |
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 medical situations can affect how CD15 results appear:
Treatment with G-CSF (a medicine used to stimulate white blood cell production) can lower CD15 expression on neutrophils, which may affect the interpretation. Acute allergic reactions, such as those triggered by allergen exposure in asthmatic patients, may also cause a temporary decrease in CD15 expression. Your doctor will take these factors into account when reviewing your report.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These are general wellness tips for patients with blood conditions:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and repeat tests as advised by your haematologist
- Report any new symptoms, such as unexplained fatigue, fever, or swollen lymph nodes, to your doctor promptly
- Maintain a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and moderate physical activity to support overall immune health
Lupin Diagnostics CD15, Flow Cytometry Test Price
The CD15, 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 due to the specialised sample handling required.
| 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
Booking your CD15, flow cytometry test online with Lupin Diagnostics is straightforward:
- 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
This test detects the CD15 marker on bone marrow cells to help diagnose blood cancers, including Hodgkin lymphoma and acute myeloid leukaemia. It is also used to monitor how well a patient is responding to treatment by tracking residual disease.
A bone marrow aspirate is required for this test. The sample is collected from the hip bone by a trained healthcare professional at a Lupin Diagnostics centre.
No fasting or special dietary preparation is required. You should bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms and previous test results, as this is needed for the accurate interpretation of your report.
Results are typically available within 3 days of sample collection. Your report will be sent to you digitally via email or WhatsApp.
CD15 positivity is a normal finding on certain white blood cells, such as granulocytes and monocytes. However, CD15 positivity on abnormal or unexpected cell types, particularly when combined with CD30 expression, may suggest conditions like Hodgkin lymphoma. A specialist will interpret your result in the context of your full clinical picture.
No. The CD15, flow cytometry test requires a centre visit. The bone marrow sample needs careful, prompt handling to maintain cell viability, which makes home collection unsuitable for this test.
Yes. Doctors commonly repeat the CD15, flow cytometry test during and after treatment for AML to monitor minimal residual disease. Tracking changes in CD15+CD117+ cell levels over time helps assess treatment response and identify early signs of relapse.
CD15, Flow Cytometry Test: Booking, Price, and Results
