Description
Why It’s Done:
The CD11c – Percent Test is used for several key purposes:
• Diagnosing hematological conditions, such as chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), where CD11c+ cells may be increased or present in abnormal amounts.
• Evaluating immune system function and monitoring immune responses, particularly in diseases that affect myeloid cell populations or dendritic cells.
• Monitoring immune-related disorders like autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, or infections, where changes in CD11c+ cell populations may be observed.
• Differentiating between normal and abnormal immune cell populations, especially in cases of leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, or monocytic disorders, where CD11c can help identify malignant or altered cells.
• Evaluating myeloid-related malignancies or conditions involving abnormal dendritic cells.
Preparation:
• No fasting or special preparation is required for this test.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, particularly those affecting immune function or chemotherapy drugs, as these can influence cell populations.
• A blood sample is typically collected from a vein in your arm, and the sample is analyzed using flow cytometry to quantify CD11c+ cells.


