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CD4+ T-Cell TNF-α Expression/IL-10 Expression Ratio, Blood — Flow Cytometry

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

A specialized flow-cytometry test that compares TNF-α and IL-10 expression within CD4+ T cells from a blood sample.

Quick summary

["This ratio provides information about the balance between two immune-signaling pathways in CD4+ T cells."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107614-0
Short code
CD4 TNFa-ex/IL10-ex R Bld FC
Synonyms
CD4 TNFa-ex/IL10-ex R Bld FC
Category
liver
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This blood test measures expression of the immune signaling proteins tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) within CD4+ T cells using flow cytometry. It reports the relative balance of these signals rather than their concentration in blood.

Why might I need this test?

This specialized test may be used to evaluate immune-cell activity in certain inflammatory, autoimmune, infectious, or treatment-monitoring situations. It is not a routine general health test and is usually ordered by a specialist.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and CD4+ T cells are identified and examined by flow cytometry. The laboratory may stimulate the cells under controlled conditions and measures their intracellular expression of TNF-α and IL-10.

How do I prepare for the test?

Special preparation is usually not required, but follow the laboratory's instructions because cell handling is important. Tell your clinician about recent infections, vaccinations, immunosuppressive medicines, and other treatments that could affect immune-cell activity.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CD4+ T-cell TNF-α/IL-10 expression ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a blood TNF-α or IL-10 level?
No. This test measures expression of these proteins inside CD4+ T cells and calculates their relative expression, not their concentrations in the blood.
Why is flow cytometry used?
Flow cytometry identifies CD4+ T cells and measures signals associated with specific proteins within those cells. This allows the laboratory to compare TNF-α and IL-10 expression in the same cell population.
Can I interpret the ratio on my own?
No. The ratio has a specialized clinical context and should be interpreted by the ordering clinician, ideally alongside other immune and inflammatory test results.
  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