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NK Cell Activity Test
| 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.
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