Cell-mediated immunity is a type of immunity that is mediated by specialized cells of the immune system. The most important cells involved in cell-mediated immunity are T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. Cell-mediated immunity is a key part of the adaptive immune system and is involved in many immune responses, including the rejection of transplanted organs and tissues, protection against some types of viruses, and the elimination of cancer cells.
Diagnostic Tests for Cell-Mediated Immunity
The diagnosis of cell-mediated immunity requires specialized tests to assess the function of T cells, B cells, and NK cells. Common tests used to evaluate cell-mediated immunity include:
• T-Cell Subset Analysis: This test measures the number and proportion of different types of T cells, such as helper T cells and cytotoxic T cells.
• Cell-Mediated Immunity Test: This test measures the ability of T cells to recognize and respond to antigens.
• NK Cell Activity Assay: This test measures the ability of NK cells to recognize and respond to antigens.
• Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity Test: This test measures the ability of T cells to recognize and respond to antigens.
• Flow Cytometry: This test measures the number and type of cells in the immune system.
• B-Cell Subset Analysis: This test measures the number and proportion of different types of B cells.
• In Vitro Lymphocyte Transformation Test: This test measures the ability of T cells to respond to antigens.
• Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): This test measures the amount of antibody produced in response to antigens.
• Interferon-Gamma Release Assays: This test measures the release of interferon-gamma, a cytokine that is important in cell-mediated immunity.
• T-Cell Receptor Excision Circles (TREC): This test measures the number of T cells that have a functional T-cell receptor.
• Immune Complex Assay: This test measures the ability of B cells to recognize and respond to antigens.
• Immunoglobulin Quantification: This test measures the amount of different types of antibodies in the blood.