Question 1

Test purpose

Accepted Answer

Immune dysfunction: It evaluates the ability of white blood cells, specifically neutrophils, to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) used to fight infections. Diagnosis of Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD): A genetic disorder that impairs the ability of immune cells to effectively kill bacteria and fungi. Detection of functional defects in the NADPH Oxidase enzyme: The enzyme responsible for producing ROS in neutrophils. Assessment of immune system efficiency in patients with recurrent or unexplained infections.

Question 2

Recommended groups

Accepted Answer

Individuals with recurrent and unexplained infections: Chronic bacterial or fungal infections. Difficulty recovering from severe infections. Chronic bacterial or fungal infections. Difficulty recovering from severe infections. Children and adolescents suspected of having genetic immune disorders: Especially in cases with a family history of Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). Especially in cases with a family history of Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). Individuals with clear immune system deficiencies: Symptoms may include recurrent abscesses, pneumonia, or bone infections. Symptoms may include recurrent abscesses, pneumonia, or bone infections. Post-stem cell transplantation or immunotherapy evaluation: To assess the effectiveness of the new or restored immune system. To assess the effectiveness of the new or restored immune system. Individuals showing abnormal results in preliminary immune function tests: Such as the Nitroblue Tetrazolium Test (NBT), as a complementary or more accurate test. Such as the Nitroblue Tetrazolium Test (NBT), as a complementary or more accurate test.

Question 3

Indicative symptoms

Accepted Answer

Recurrent or chronic infections: Frequent bacterial or fungal infections in the respiratory system, skin, bones, or gastrointestinal tract. Frequent bacterial or fungal infections in the respiratory system, skin, bones, or gastrointestinal tract. Recurrent abscess formation: Abscesses in the skin or internal organs (e.g., liver, lungs). Abscesses in the skin or internal organs (e.g., liver, lungs). Severe pneumonia: Recurrent pneumonia or infections that do not respond well to treatment. Recurrent pneumonia or infections that do not respond well to treatment. Wound healing problems: Slow healing of wounds or persistent infections in them. Slow healing of wounds or persistent infections in them. Chronic lymphadenitis: Persistent or painful swelling of lymph nodes with accompanying infections. Persistent or painful swelling of lymph nodes with accompanying infections. Family history of immune disorders: Presence of relatives with immune diseases such as Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). Presence of relatives with immune diseases such as Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). Signs of immune system weakness: Chronic fatigue associated with infections, unexplained fever, or weight loss linked to recurrent infections. Chronic fatigue associated with infections, unexplained fever, or weight loss linked to recurrent infections.

Question 4

FAQ

Accepted Answer

What is the DHR test? The DHR test is an assessment of the function of white blood cells (neutrophils) in producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) necessary for fighting infections. Why is this test requested? It is requested to evaluate immune system efficiency and diagnose disorders such as Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) in patients with recurrent or chronic infections. How is the test performed? A small blood sample is taken from the patient and analyzed using flow cytometry after adding DHR substance. Does the test require any preparation? Typically, no fasting or special preparations are needed unless otherwise instructed by the doctor. Is the test painful? The blood collection is done using the standard procedure for blood draws, which is relatively simple and not painful. How long does it take to get the results? The time varies depending on the lab, but results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days. Are there any side effects of the test? There are no side effects, except for the possibility of a small bruise at the blood draw site. Who needs to undergo this test? It is recommended for patients who suffer from recurrent or severe infections or for those suspected of having genetic immune disorders. What is the difference between DHR and Nitroblue Tetrazolium (NBT)? DHR is more accurate and modern compared to NBT, as it is performed using flow cytometry to analyze cells in more detail. Can the DHR test alone be relied upon for diagnosis? The DHR test is often part of a series of tests, including clinical and laboratory assessments, to confirm the diagnosis.

Question 5

Normal levels

Accepted Answer

Normal Response: Indicates that neutrophils are able to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) sufficiently, meaning there is no dysfunction in their activity. Indicates that neutrophils are able to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) sufficiently, meaning there is no dysfunction in their activity. Low or Absent Response: Suggests a dysfunction in ROS production, which may indicate a disorder such as Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). Suggests a dysfunction in ROS production, which may indicate a disorder such as Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). The fluorescence level produced by the DHR substance in the cells is compared to the reference level in the testing laboratory. Values may vary depending on age and gender, but the laboratory technician will provide a precise evaluation based on the reference group used in the lab. Since the values depend on laboratory-specific standards, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for a correct understanding of the results based on the patient's overall health condition.

Immune Efficiency Test - Dihydrorhodamine (DHR) Test