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Medical information Clinical review pending

Diagnostic Testing

Immunophenotyping by Flow Cytometry CD8 Test

The Immunophenotyping by Flow Cytometry CD8 Test measures CD8 T-cells in the blood to assess immune function. It is important for diagnosing and monitoring conditions like HIV/AIDS and other immunodeficiency states.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
3 mL (2 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Lavender Top (EDTA) tube, OR 3 mL (2 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube, OR 2 mL (1 mL min.) Bone marrow in 1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required for this blood test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 7,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Immunophenotyping by Flow Cytometry CD8 Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Recurrent infections
  • ✓Diagnosis or monitoring of HIV/AIDS
  • ✓Suspected immunodeficiency
  • ✓Monitoring immune response to treatment
  • ✓Family history of immunodeficiency
  • ✓Evaluation of immune system disorders
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Assesses immune function by quantifying CD8 T-cells. Aids in the diagnosis and monitoring of immunodeficiency states, particularly HIV/AIDS.
The Immunophenotyping by Flow Cytometry CD8 Test is a diagnostic tool used to evaluate the immune system. It specifically measures the quantity and characteristics of CD8 T-cells, which are crucial for the body's immune response. Understanding CD8 T-cell levels is vital for diagnosing conditions such as AIDS and other immunodeficiency states.

This test detects the number of CD8 T-cells in your blood sample. A low count can indicate an impaired immune response, often seen in individuals with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders.

This test is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of immune dysfunction, such as recurrent infections, patients diagnosed with HIV or AIDS, people with a family history of immunodeficiency diseases, and those undergoing treatments that may affect their immune system.

Taking this test allows for early detection of immune system issues, helps monitor the effectiveness of treatment for immunodeficiency conditions, provides guidance for further diagnostic procedures, and offers peace of mind regarding your immune health.

Results indicate the quantity of CD8 T-cells. Low levels may suggest a compromised immune system. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider for a comprehensive interpretation of your results.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo specific patient preparation is required for this blood test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Sample3 mL (2 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Lavender Top (EDTA) tube, OR 3 mL (2 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube, OR 2 mL (1 mL min.) Bone marrow in 1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube.
MethodologyFlow Cytometry
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test measures CD8 T-cell counts but does not provide information on the functionality of these cells. Results should be interpreted alongside other clinical findings and laboratory tests. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

CD8 T-cells, also known as cytotoxic T lymphocytes, are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system by killing infected cells and cancer cells.
Measuring CD8 T-cells helps assess the health and function of the cellular immune system. Low levels can indicate an impaired immune response, often seen in conditions like HIV/AIDS.
A low CD8 T-cell count may suggest a weakened immune system, making the individual more susceptible to infections. Your doctor will interpret this result in the context of your overall health.
No special preparation is typically needed for this blood test. However, it is always best to confirm any specific instructions with the laboratory before your appointment.
Results are typically reported as the absolute number of CD8 T-cells per microliter of blood. Your healthcare provider will explain the significance of your specific results.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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