T-cell enumeration
Laboratory test measuring the number and types of T-lymphocytes, crucial for diagnosing immunodeficiency disorders.
Full Definition
T-cell enumeration is a flow cytometry-based laboratory technique used to count and characterize different subsets of T-lymphocytes in peripheral blood. This test measures CD4+ helper T-cells, CD8+ cytotoxic T-cells, and total T-cell populations using specific cell surface markers. In pediatric immunology, T-cell enumeration is essential for diagnosing conditions like SCID, DiGeorge syndrome, and monitoring immune reconstitution after treatment. The test results must be interpreted against age-specific reference ranges, as normal T-cell counts vary significantly throughout childhood development.
Usage
Usage note: Use hyphen between 'T-cell' and 'enumeration'; may also be written as 'T lymphocyte enumeration'.
In Context
- "T-cell enumeration revealed severely reduced CD4+ and CD8+ populations consistent with SCID." — Laboratory report
- "Serial T-cell enumeration was performed to monitor immune reconstitution post-transplant." — Follow-up protocol