Neutrophil function (neutrophil burst, DHR)
| Category | Immunology |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Neutrophils are an important component of the innate immune system and they are among the first cells to arrive at sites of injury. They play an important role in killing and removal of bacteria and fungi. This panel of tests is designed to assess neutrophil killing and phagocytosis. These tests should only be requested when there is a clinical suspicion of chronic granulomatous disease (recurrent bacterial and fungal infections, gastrointestinal involvement and deep seated abscesses caused by catalase positive organisms). This test can also detect carriers of CGD associated mutations. This test assesses dihydrorhodamine (DHR) oxidation by stimulated neutrophils using flow cytometry. Other causes of low DHR include complete MPO deficiency, which has variable penetrance with around 5% of patients experiencing severe infections (usually candida). |
| Clinical Indications |
Screening for CGD (including carrier status) |
| Reference range | See report, neutrophil degranulation is compared to a healthy control sample drawn at the same time as the patient and transported together. |
| Sample & container required | 10 mL heparin (green top) for adults; 5-10 mL heparin (green top) for children; Do not separate or refrigerate; Test within 24 hours |
| Sample volume | See above |
| Turnaround time | 7 days |
| Notes | Test must be pre-arranged with Charing Cross Laboratory on 020 33 110130 (or ext 10130). Samples must be accompanied with blood from a normal healthy control. Samples must be <24 hours old on receipt and can only be accepted Monday to Thursday. Please contact the lab to arrange. The lab is awaiting UKAS accreditation for these tests due to a change in the assay. |