CD71 Antigen (Fc Receptor IIIa) in Whole Blood – Flow Cytometry
This test measures the presence of CD71, a protein found on certain blood cells, using a blood sample. It helps assess immune cell function and potential blood disorders.
["CD71 helps identify immune cell activity and may be checked if you have symptoms of blood-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 8136-4
- Short code
- CD71
- Synonyms
- CD71 Cells NFr Bld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- EDTA (lavender-top) blood collection tube; sodium heparin (green-top) tube is also acceptable for flow cytometry applications.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Flow cytometry using fluorescein-labeled monoclonal antibodies against CD71 (transferrin receptor). Results may be expressed as a percentage of total cells or as absolute cell count.
- CPT
- 86356
- SNOMED
- 395112001
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL of whole blood for adults; minimum 1 mL for pediatric specimens.
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 24-48 hours of collection when stored at room temperature (18-25°C). Do not refrigerate as this may affect cell viability and antigen expression.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
CD71 is a glycoprotein (a protein with sugar molecules attached) that acts as a receptor for certain nutrients, like iron. It is also expressed on the surface of various immune cells, including red blood cells, platelets, and certain white blood cells. This test detects its presence in whole blood to evaluate immune function or blood cell health.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or unexplained infections. It could also be part of diagnosing conditions such as anemia, immune disorders, or blood cell abnormalities.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using flow cytometry, a technique that measures the size, shape, and other characteristics of cells in the blood.
What Are Common Uses?
While CD71 itself isn’t commonly used for routine screening, it may be part of specialized testing for research or rare blood disorders. It can help monitor immune responses or identify specific cell types in complex conditions.
Reference range
Reference values for CD71+ cells in peripheral blood vary by laboratory and population. Generally reported as a low percentage in healthy adults; CD71 expression is primarily associated with erythroid precursors and activated proliferating cells.N/A
No special patient preparation is required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should be informed that this test requires a venous blood draw.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
CD71 Flow
Frequently asked questions
How Will My Results Be Used?
What Are Typical Reference Ranges?
What Should I Expect Before the Test?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy