
CD16/56 Count









The CD16/56 Count is a group of blood tests that measures the quantity and percentage of natural killer (NK) cells in your body, which play a key role in immune defense against infections and tumors.













Understanding CD16/56 Count
Natural killer (NK) cells are a type of lymphocyte critical to the body's innate immune system.
The CD16/56 Count helps evaluate the status and distribution of these cells, which can be disrupted in certain diseases, including cancers, chronic infections, and immune disorders. NK cells are identified by specific surface markers (CD16 and CD56) and can be altered in conditions like organ transplants, immune deficiencies, tumors, and female infertility (which may be associated in selected clinical contexts).
Doctors may recommend the CD16/56 Count if there are symptoms or risk factors for immune dysfunction, certain cancers (like leukemia, lymphoma, or solid tumors), unexplained infections, or evaluation before/after transplants.
No special preparation is needed for the CD16/56 Count. Provide a brief clinical history/doctor's prescription at the time of sample collection. However, informing the doctor about the medication history, history of recent infections, use of steroids or immunosuppressants, and other clinical conditions ensures accurate interpretation.
Test result ranges can vary slightly between laboratories, depending on their methods and standards. The report should not be interpreted without medical guidance. Always consult a doctor, who will explain the results in the context of the symptoms and other investigations.
Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.
What does CD16/56 Count measure?
Contains 2 testsThe CD16/56 Count measures the presence and levels of CD16 and CD56 proteins on natural killer (NK) cells. Normal levels of these cell proteins may indicate proper functioning of the NK cells. High values of NK cells in the body may suggest an underlying health problem, but results must be interpreted with clinical correlation, as counts vary widely by context.





FAQs related to CD16/56 Count
- Eissmann P. Natural Killer Cells. BiteSized Immunology: Cells. British Society for Immunology. [Accessed 29 Aug. 2025].Available from:
- Mace EM. Human natural killer cells: Form, function, and development. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2023 Feb;151(2):371-385. [Accessed 29 Aug. 2025].Available from:
- Rahman M, Bordoni B. Histology, Natural Killer Cells. [Updated 2023 Feb 6]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from:
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