NK Cell Activity Test

Immune System Status The NK Cell (Natural Killer) Activity Test Individuals are encouraged to connect with their own physician first regarding this issue. As part of the immune system, NK cells account for about 5 - 15% of circulating lymphocytes and can represent up to 45% of tissue infiltrating lymphocytes. NK cells are a standard of measurement used to determine the level of immune system function and the potential for disease. According to the Pittsburg Cancer Institute, Department of Pathology study entitled, Human Natural Killer Cells in Health and Disease: Biology and Therapeutic Potential, "In addition to their role in control of metastasis and infections, NK cells participate in immunoregulation, haematopoiesis, reproduction and neuroendocrine interactions. Defective or absent NK cell activity is associated with a spectrum of human diseases." NK cells are unique in that they eliminate their "targets without the need of antigen processing, or presentation by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules". The study continues by saying, "NK cell activity appears to be a more sensitive marker of disease progression than the absolute number of NK cells." Please note the use of the words "activity" and "function" in the above, rather than the word "count". It is not enough to know if NK cells exist, the question is, are they active or functioning. For various reasons, the average "new norm" in this country of functioning/active NK cells is 20-50 per lytic unit. The average in a healthy population is 150-225 per lytic unit. [Reference: Jesse Stoff, MD, Viro-immunologist, IntegraMed, Tucson, Arizona] The NK cell Function/Activity Test is a blood test requested by a physician. Insurance’s cover it like any other blood test. There are some differences procedurally than other blood tests. The NK Cell Activity Test has been available since about 1990 and there are four labs in the country currently capable of performing it. The true value of this test is in case management as the test results become a baseline. This test is of particular value to a patient who is trying to rebuild their immune system after cancer treatment; chemotherapy, etc. - regardless of exactly what steps they are taking to increase immune system function. The test can be of management value in the presence of other diseases as well, and, lets a patient know where they stand; severity of pathology would certainly be a consideration. Often, the test is not really crucial, particularly in circumstances where relief of symptomology can be a gage unto itself. To order the test and to ask questions regarding the test: Tiburon Diagnostic Laboratories Specialty Laboratories 802 E. 16th St. 2211 Michigan Ave. Tucson, AZ 85719 Santa Monica, CA 90404-3900 877-842-8766 800-421-7110 Pay upfront, client submits to insurance themselves. Cost lower. Accepts insurance upfront, cost is higher. Note: The Pittsburg Cancer Institute study by Theresa L. Whiteside and Ronald B. Herberman is available on request, as is other information. The cost of the NK Cell Activity Test is in the $300 - $500 range. It might be important to determine availability of insurance coverage. The information provided at this site has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a diagnosis, treatment, or prescription for any disease. Please consult your physician for advice.