CD3-/CD16+CD56+ (%) details
What CD3-/CD16+CD56+ (%) shows
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, that can attack virus-infected and abnormal cells without needing prior exposure. They are identified by flow cytometry as cells that lack the T cell marker CD3 but carry CD16 and/or CD56. This value gives NK cells as a percentage of all your lymphocytes, while an absolute count gives their number per volume of blood. It helps look at the innate part of your immune system, for example when recurrent viral infections or an immune disorder are suspected. A low or high percentage can reflect changes in immune activity from many causes, so results are read with the absolute count and other lymphocyte subsets.
Tests that include CD3-/CD16+CD56+ (%)
Low numbers of NK cells are found in individuals who are susceptible to viral infections, including cytomegalovirus and varicella.
- CD3-/CD16+CD56+ (%) Shows natural killer cells, identified as CD3-negative and CD16/CD56-positive, as a percentage of your lymphocytes, to help assess immune function.
- Lymphocytes The number of lymphocytes, white blood cells central to your immune response (including T-cells, B-cells, and NK cells), in your blood.
- Natural Killer Cells (CD3-CD16+CD56+), Absolute The absolute number of natural killer (NK) cells, immune cells that attack infected and abnormal cells, in your blood, measured by flow cytometry.
Not sure how to read your results? We can help.
Schedule a consultation with a Hormunity specialist. We’ll walk through every marker, interpret what it means for you, and map out the next steps for your care.
Book a specialist