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Medical information Clinical review pending

Diagnostic Testing

Natural Killer Cells Test

Assess your immune system's health with the Natural Killer Cells Test. This test evaluates the activity of NK cells, crucial for fighting cancer and infections, particularly relevant for patients with cancer or recurrent abortions.

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.) of whole blood in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube AND 3 mL (2 mL min.) of whole blood in a Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube. Alternatively, 2 mL (1 mL min.) of bone marrow in a Green Top tube.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 10,400

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 Natural Killer Cells 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.

  • ✓Patients with a history of recurrent abortions
  • ✓Individuals diagnosed with cancer or undergoing cancer treatment
  • ✓Patients experiencing unexplained immune deficiencies
  • ✓Frequent or severe infections
  • ✓Unexplained fatigue
  • ✓Unexplained weight loss
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Evaluates immune system function, particularly NK cell activity, which plays a role in fighting cancer and viral infections. Useful in monitoring patients with cancer or immune deficiencies.
The Natural Killer Cells Test is a diagnostic tool used to evaluate the function of your immune system, specifically focusing on natural killer (NK) cells. These cells are important defenders against tumors and virally infected cells. Measuring their levels and activity helps healthcare providers understand your immune health, especially if you are dealing with cancer or recurrent abortions. This test uses flow cytometry to detect specific markers (CD3, CD16, CD56) on NK cells, providing insights into immune response and potential underlying issues. Understanding your NK cell activity can guide personalized treatment plans and effective patient care.
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. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Sample3 mL (2 mL min.) of whole blood in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube AND 3 mL (2 mL min.) of whole blood in a Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube. Alternatively, 2 mL (1 mL min.) of bone marrow in a Green Top tube.
MethodologyFlow cytometry is used to detect and quantify NK cells based on the presence of CD3, CD16, and CD56 markers.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
Test results must be interpreted in the context of the patient's overall clinical picture. Abnormal results may require further investigation.
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

NK cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system by identifying and destroying tumor cells and virus-infected cells.
NK cell activity can influence cancer progression and response to treatment. Monitoring NK cells can help oncologists understand the patient's immune status.
The sample is typically collected as a blood draw using specific tubes (Lavender Top and Green Top) or potentially bone marrow.
Samples should be shipped immediately to the laboratory at 18-22°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
The test measures the presence and activity of specific markers (CD3, CD16, CD56) on NK cells using flow cytometry.
You can book the test by calling or WhatsApping us at +254711564616. We offer services in major cities and home sample collection.
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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