CD14 Antigen in Blood Cells (Qualitative)
This test checks whether your blood cells have a specific protein marker (CD14) that helps identify certain immune cells, such as monocytes.
["CD14 is linked to immune response and inflammation; this test helps assess immune function or monitor conditions affecting white blood cells."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14963-3
- Short code
- CD14ABN
- Synonyms
- CD14 Abn Bld Cells NFr
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- EDTA (lavender/purple-top) tube for flow cytometry; sodium heparin (green-top) tube acceptable alternative
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–999 years
- Method
- Flow cytometry with CD14 monoclonal antibody staining
- CPT
- 88184
- SNOMED
- 365641000124104
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL whole blood (minimum 1 mL for pediatric patients)
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 24 hours of collection when stored at room temperature (20-25°C). Refrigeration (2-8°C) may extend viability up to 48 hours but is not preferred for optimal cell surface antigen preservation.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 200
- Icterus max
- 200
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
CD14 is a protein found on the surface of certain white blood cells, including monocytes—a type of immune cell. This test detects its presence in your blood cells to evaluate immune activity or cell type.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of infection, inflammation, or immune disorders. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like sepsis, certain cancers, or immune deficiencies.
Common Uses and Conditions
This test is sometimes used in research or specialized diagnostic settings to assess immune cell populations, though it is less common in routine clinical practice. It may also be part of broader blood work for suspected infections or immune-related diseases.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is processed to identify CD14-positive cells without measuring exact quantities.
Reference range
Normal peripheral blood typically contains minimal to no CD14+ abnormal cells; reference values are interpreted in context of clinical morphology and are generally reported qualitatively (negative/positive) or as a percentage relative to total leukocyte count.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patient should be well-hydrated. Avoid recent blood transfusion when possible as it may affect cell populations.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
CD14 Qualitative Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
CD14 is involved in recognizing pathogens and triggering immune responses. Elevated levels may suggest infection, inflammation, or certain immune disorders, while abnormal results could indicate immune system dysfunction or other conditions affecting white blood cells.
Results for this qualitative test are usually available within a few days, depending on lab processing and your healthcare provider’s workflow. Follow-up may require additional testing or clinical correlation.
A positive result indicates the presence of CD14-positive cells, which may support an immune response or infection. A negative result suggests fewer of these cells, which could raise questions about immune function or underlying conditions requiring further evaluation.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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.
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy