Monocyte and Dendritic Cell Phenotypic Analysis from Whole Blood
This test evaluates the characteristics of immune cells called monocytes and dendritic cells found in your blood. These cells play key roles in detecting and responding to infections and regulating immune responses.
["Understanding your immune cell types helps doctors assess immune function and identify potential health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 104547-5
- Short code
- Monocyte and dendritic cell pnl Bld FC
- Synonyms
- Monocyte and dendritic cell pnl Bld FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent infections, unusual immune responses, or conditions affecting white blood cells. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for autoimmune diseases, cancer, or immune deficiencies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a small amount of blood, similar to a routine blood test. The process usually takes a few minutes.
What the Test Measures
The test analyzes the types, proportions, and specific markers of monocytes and dendritic cells in your blood. Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that can turn into macrophages or dendritic cells, which help fight infections and present antigens to other immune cells.
How Results Are Interpreted
Results are compared to typical ranges for healthy individuals. Abnormal findings may suggest immune system imbalances, infections, or underlying health conditions that require further investigation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Changes in monocyte or dendritic cell counts or characteristics can indicate immune activation, chronic inflammation, infections, or disorders like leukemia, lymphoma, or autoimmune diseases. For example, high levels of certain dendritic cells might point to an overactive immune response, while low levels could signal immune suppression.
Short name
Monocyte/Dendritic Cell Profile
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my test results?
What does it mean if my test shows abnormal monocyte or dendritic cell counts?
Can I eat or drink before this 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.
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