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CD107a Protein Expression in Blood Cells (via Flow Cytometry)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of CD107a, a protein found on certain immune cells in your blood, which helps assess immune cell activation or function.

Quick summary

["CD107a helps evaluate immune responses, often linked to conditions like chronic inflammation or immune-related disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95186-3
Short code
CMVCD107FC
Synonyms
CD107ab CMV CD8 Cells # Bld FC
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Sodium heparin (green-top) or ACD (acid-citrate-dextrose, yellow-top) anticoagulated tube; EDTA (purple-top) may be acceptable for some protocols but heparin is preferred to maintain cell viability for functional assays
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
86356 (commonly used; may also be billed under 86352 for individual cell marker analysis or 88184/88185 for flow cytometry)
SNOMED
122448000 |Cytomegalovirus antibody test| (parent concept); specific functional flow cytometry assay may map to 428010002 |Cytometric immunophenotyping|
Specimen volume
3-5 mL of whole blood (minimum 1 mL for pediatric samples); volume may vary by laboratory protocol
Stability
Specimen should be processed within 8-24 hours of collection when stored at room temperature (18-25°C); do not refrigerate or freeze whole blood. Mononuclear cells should ideally be processed and analyzed within 24 hours for optimal viability and functional response.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or conditions that suggest immune system involvement, such as chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. It may also be used to monitor immune responses during treatments like immunotherapy.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may provide a sample of whole blood drawn from a vein, depending on the lab’s protocol. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.

What the Test Results Mean

Results show whether CD107a is present on immune cells. Elevated levels may indicate activated immune cells, while normal or low levels could suggest reduced immune activity or dysfunction.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor immune responses in conditions like chronic inflammation, certain cancers (e.g., lymphoma), or after immune-modulating treatments (e.g., immunotherapy). It may also help diagnose or track autoimmune disorders.

Reference range

Reference ranges are laboratory-specific and not well-established. Values are typically reported as absolute count per microliter (cells/μL) and/or as percentage of CMV-specific CD8+ T cells expressing CD107a and CD107b. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical context and compared to the laboratory's own validated reference range.N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No fasting required. Specimen should ideally be collected prior to administration of immunosuppressive therapy or recent blood transfusion when possible. Patients should be advised that recent corticosteroid or biologic immunomodulatory therapy may affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

CD107a Expression Test

Frequently asked questions

What questions might you have about this test?
This test is not a routine screening and is usually ordered based on specific clinical concerns. If you’re unsure why it was requested, discuss your symptoms or treatment plan with your doctor.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on the lab. Your provider will contact you with the findings once they’re ready.
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test?
The procedure involves a small needle insertion for blood draw, which may cause mild discomfort. Rarely, there could be bruising or swelling at the site. Most people tolerate it well.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy