CD14 Cell Count (Peripheral Blood)
This test measures the number of CD14-positive cells in your blood, which are a type of immune cell involved in detecting and responding to infections and inflammation.
["CD14 cells help your immune system fight infections and manage inflammation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27876-2
- Short code
- CD14CD11b
- Synonyms
- CD14+CD11b+ Cells NFr Bld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- EDTA (lavender-top) tube or heparinized tube (green-top) for flow cytometry
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–99 years
- Method
- Flow Cytometry with immunofluorescence staining using fluorescently-labeled antibodies (anti-CD14 and anti-CD11b) to identify and quantify monocyte/macrophage subpopulations
- CPT
- 86355
- SNOMED
- 415729005
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL whole blood for adults; minimum 1 mL for pediatric patients
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 6-8 hours of collection. May be stored at room temperature (18-25°C) for up to 24 hours if immediate processing is not possible. Do not refrigerate as this may alter cell surface marker expression.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is CD14 Used For?
CD14 cells are part of the immune system and play a role in recognizing pathogens (like bacteria and viruses) and triggering immune responses. This test may be used to assess immune function, monitor infections, or evaluate inflammatory conditions. It can also help diagnose certain blood disorders or guide treatment decisions in some cases.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of infection (such as fever, fatigue, or prolonged illness), suspected autoimmune conditions, or if you’re undergoing treatment for conditions like sepsis, chronic inflammation, or certain cancers. It may also be part of routine monitoring in specific clinical scenarios.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to count the number of CD14-positive cells. This process typically takes a few hours and may be done alongside other blood tests.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are reported as the absolute count of CD14 cells per microliter (µL) of blood. While reference ranges can vary by lab, abnormal counts may suggest immune dysfunction, infection, or other underlying health issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Reference range
Reference values are laboratory-specific and should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings. CD14+CD11b+ cell populations are reported as percentage of total leukocytes or absolute count per microliter.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Avoid strenuous exercise prior to specimen collection. Specimen should be collected by trained phlebotomist using standard venipuncture technique.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated CD14 levels may indicate acute or chronic infections, inflammation, or certain autoimmune diseases. Lower-than-expected levels could signal immune suppression, genetic disorders affecting immune cells, or conditions like aplastic anemia. This test is often used as part of a broader diagnostic evaluation to guide treatment planning.
Short name
CD14+ Cells
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal CD14 levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle or diet affect CD14 test results?
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