Skip to content

Bcellsdock8bcellsnfrbldfc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This blood test measures the amount of DOCK8 protein on B cells using flow cytometry to help diagnose immune deficiency disorders.

Quick summary

{"Measures DOCK8 protein levels on B cells in your blood","Helps diagnose rare immune deficiencies like DOCK8 deficiency syndrome","A simple blood draw is all that's needed","Results help doctors understand why you may have frequent infections","Often used when patients have high IgE levels and recurrent infections"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96417-1
Short code
DOCK8-BCELL
Synonyms
B Cells DOCK8+/B Cells NFr Bld FC
Category
cardiac
Sample
whole-blood
Container
EDTA (lavender top) tube - Multiple tubes may be required for comprehensive immunophenotyping panel
Units
N/A
Ref low
95
Ref high
100
Critical range
5 N/A – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
88188
SNOMED
708198003
Specimen volume
3-5 mL whole blood in EDTA tube, minimum 1 mL acceptable for limited panel
Stability
Room temperature: 24-48 hours. Do not refrigerate. Transport upright. Avoid extreme temperatures. Process within 24 hours for optimal results.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
20
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures how much DOCK8 protein is present on the surface of B cells in your blood. B cells are a type of white blood cell that helps your body fight infections. DOCK8 is a special protein that helps these immune cells work properly. The test uses a technique called flow cytometry, which can count and examine different types of cells in detail.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where special dyes and lasers are used to detect DOCK8 protein on B cells. The entire process is similar to a routine blood test and takes just a few minutes.

Do I need to prepare for the test?

You do not need to fast or stop taking medications for this test. Simply follow your doctor's instructions and arrive at the lab at your scheduled time. The test is safe and has no special preparation requirements.

Reference range

Reference range: DOCK8+ B cells should represent >95% of total CD19+ B cells. Complete absence or severe reduction of DOCK8+ B cells (<5%) suggests DOCK8 deficiency. Interpretation should be correlated with clinical findings and additional immunological studies.N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Test may be performed regardless of fasting status. Inform laboratory of any recent infections, immunosuppressive therapy, or immunizations as these may affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Why does my doctor want this test?
Your doctor may suspect an immune deficiency if you have had many serious infections, very high IgE levels, or skin problems like eczema that don't respond to typical treatments. This test helps determine if DOCK8 deficiency is the cause.
Is this test painful?
The blood draw may cause brief discomfort, similar to a routine blood test. Most people tolerate it well with minimal pain.
How long does it take to get results?
Flow cytometry is a specialized test, so results may take several days to a week. Your doctor will contact you with the results once they are available.
What do abnormal results mean?
Low or absent DOCK8 protein on B cells suggests DOCK8 deficiency syndrome, a form of primary immune deficiency. Your doctor will discuss treatment options, which may include antibiotics, immunoglobulin therapy, or consultation with an immunologist.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy