Description
Why It’s Done:
The CD23 – Percent Test is typically done to:
• Diagnose and monitor B-cell malignancies, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and other B-cell lymphomas, where CD23 expression is often abnormal or elevated.
• Evaluate immune system function, especially in conditions that affect B-cells.
• Assess the presence of autoimmune diseases, where B-cell function may be altered.
• Monitor disease progression in patients with B-cell cancers or lymphoproliferative disorders.
• Assess immune deficiencies that may involve abnormal B-cell behavior, such as in common variable immunodeficiency (CVID).
• Distinguish between normal reactive B-cells and those that are malignant, as CD23 expression can help differentiate between benign and cancerous B-cells.
Preparation:
• No fasting or special preparation is required for the test.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, particularly immunosuppressive treatments or chemotherapy, as these could influence B-cell counts and CD23 expression.
• A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm, and the sample is processed in a laboratory using flow cytometry for accurate analysis.
