DOCK8 Expression Panel
A laboratory blood test that uses flow cytometry to measure DOCK8 protein levels on immune cells, helping doctors diagnose inherited immune deficiencies.
{"Measures DOCK8 protein on white blood cells","Helps diagnose DOCK8 immunodeficiency syndrome","Uses a blood sample analyzed by flow cytometry","Results help guide treatment decisions","Abnormal results may indicate immune system problems"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96415-5
- Short code
- DOCK8
- Synonyms
- DOCK8 Expr Pnl Bld FC
- Category
- cardiac
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- EDTA purple-top vacutainer tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 95
- Ref high
- 100
- Critical range
- 5 N/A – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–100 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 88188
- SNOMED
- 424673007
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL whole blood
- Stability
- Room temperature (18-25°C): 24-48 hours if processed within 24 hours; refrigerate (2-8°C) if delay >24 hours; do not freeze
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The DOCK8 expression panel is a laboratory test that measures the amount of DOCK8 protein on the surface of white blood cells called lymphocytes. DOCK8 is an important protein that helps your immune system function properly. When the DOCK8 gene has mutations or is not working correctly, it can lead to a condition called DOCK8 deficiency, which causes problems with the immune system.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory where specialists use a technique called flow cytometry. This method uses lasers and special dyes to detect and measure the amount of DOCK8 protein on different types of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). The test does not require fasting and is generally safe with minimal risks, such as slight bruising or dizziness at the injection site.
Why is this test important?
This test helps doctors identify whether you or your child has DOCK8 deficiency, a genetic condition that affects the immune system. People with this condition may experience recurrent infections, allergic reactions, and other immune-related problems. Early detection through this test can help doctors provide appropriate treatment and management strategies.
Reference range
DOCK8 expression is reported as percentage of positive lymphocytes and median fluorescence intensity (MFI). Normal DOCK8 expression: >95% of lymphocytes show positive staining with normal MFI. Results interpretation requires clinical correlation.N/A
No fasting required. Collect specimen Monday through Friday during standard laboratory hours. Avoid excessive handling of tube before analysis. Inform laboratory if patient is receiving immunosuppressive therapy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Who needs this test?
What do the results mean?
Is any preparation needed before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy