Blood is collected in the standard way, which is simple and relatively painless.

How long does it take to get results?

It varies by laboratory, but results are usually ready within one to three working days.

Are there any side effects?

No side effects, except for possible minor bruising at the blood collection site.

Who should take this test?

Recommended for patients with recurrent or severe infections or those suspected of having inherited immune disorders.

Difference between DHR and Nitroblue Tetrazolium (NBT)?

DHR is more accurate and modern than NBT, using Flow Cytometry to analyze cells in detail.

Can DHR alone confirm the diagnosis?

It is usually part of a panel of tests, including clinical and laboratory evaluations, to confirm the diagnosis.

Medical Laboratories

Immune Cell Efficiency Test

Dihydrorhodamine (DHR) Test

Specialized assay to evaluate white blood cell function in fighting infections, aiding in the diagnosis of primary immunodeficiencies to ensure robust immune system protection.

Trusted medical contentUpdated: 25-04-2026Views: 86LHL-348

About this service

Dihydrorhodamine (DHR) test is a specialized assay used to evaluate the function of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, in producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) essential for fighting infections. This analysis is a key tool for diagnosing immune system disorders such as Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). The test is performed using flow cytometry to precisely analyze cell activity. It helps determine the efficiency of the immune system in patients experiencing recurrent infections or other immune-related issues.

Purpose Test

Immune function disorder: Assesses white blood cells’ ability, especially neutrophils, to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) used to fight infections.
Diagnosis of Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD): A genetic disorder impairing immune cells’ ability to effectively kill bacteria and fungi.
Detection of NADPH Oxidase dysfunction: The enzyme responsible for ROS production in neutrophils.
Immune competence evaluation: For patients with recurrent or unexplained infections.

Recommended groups

Individuals with recurrent or unexplained infections: Including chronic bacterial or fungal infections and difficulty recovering from severe infections.
Children and adolescents suspected of having inherited immune disorders: Especially with a family history of Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD).
Individuals with clear immune deficiency: Presenting with recurrent abscesses, lung infections, or bone infections.
Post stem cell transplant or immunotherapy evaluation: To assess the effectiveness of the newly restored immune system.
People with abnormal results in preliminary immune function tests: Such as the Nitroblue Tetrazolium Test (NBT) for more precise assessment.

Symptoms indicative

Recurrent or chronic infections: Including repeated bacterial or fungal infections in the respiratory system, skin, bones, or digestive tract.
Repeated abscess formation: Abscesses in the skin or internal organs such as liver and lungs.
Severe lung infections: Recurrent pneumonia or infections not responding to standard treatment.
Wound healing problems: Slow healing of wounds or persistent infections in wounds.
Chronic lymph node inflammation: Persistent or painful lymph node enlargement with infections.
Family history of immune disorders: Family members affected by immune diseases such as Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD).
Signs of immune deficiency: Chronic fatigue with infections, unexplained fever, or weight loss associated with recurrent infections.

Normal Levels

Normal response: Indicates neutrophils can produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) adequately, showing no functional defect.
Low or absent response: Suggests a defect in ROS production, which may indicate disorders such as Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD).
The fluorescence level of cells after DHR stimulation is compared to the reference range of the testing lab.
Values may vary with age and sex, but the physician or lab specialist provides an accurate assessment based on the lab’s reference group.

Frequently Asked Questions

Short answers to the FAQs published with this service.

What is the DHR test?

DHR test evaluates the function of white blood cells (neutrophils) in producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are essential for fighting infections.

Why is this test requested?

It is requested to assess 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 and analyzed using Flow Cytometry after adding the DHR reagent.

Does the test require any preparation?

Usually, no fasting or special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise by the doctor.

Immune Cell Efficiency Test

About this service

Purpose Test

Recommended groups

Symptoms indicative

Normal Levels

What is included?

Conditions and notices

Frequently Asked Questions

References and additional resources

Scientific references

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