Ordering the CD57 Natural Killer Cell Test Panel for Lyme Disease
The CD57 Natural Killer Cell Test Panel for Lyme Disease helps measure specific immune cells that can be affected by tick-borne infections. This test is often used to track immune system changes in people with Lyme disease, especially when symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, or memory problems persist. Interestingly, research shows that low CD57 cell counts may remain even after Lyme disease treatment, which can help guide ongoing care and management.
Ordering this test provides several specific benefits:
- Tracks CD57 and CD8 cell levels to monitor immune response during and after Lyme disease treatment.
- Helps identify ongoing immune suppression that may be linked to chronic symptoms.
- Supports decisions about further treatment or follow-up testing for tick-borne infections.
- Offers a measurable way to assess changes in immune function over time.
- Includes a complete blood count (CBC) to check for other blood cell changes related to infection or inflammation.
Who Should Consider Natural Killer Cell and Immune Function Testing
People who have experienced a tick bite and now face ongoing symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or trouble concentrating may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has completed Lyme disease treatment but still feels tired and has memory issues might use this test to see if their immune system is still affected.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- When symptoms such as muscle pain, dizziness, or heart palpitations continue after treatment for Lyme disease.
- If a person has a history of tick exposure and now has unexplained neurological symptoms.
- For those with recurring rashes or swollen lymph nodes that do not resolve with standard care.
- When a healthcare provider suspects a co-infection with other tick-borne bacteria.
- In cases where someone has frequent sleep disturbances and mood changes after a tick bite, which are less commonly linked to immune cell changes but can be related.
This test can help pinpoint if immune cell levels are still low, which may explain why symptoms are not improving. Delaying this test could mean missing important information about immune recovery, which may slow down the process of finding the right treatment plan.
Preparing for Immune Cell and CBC Testing
Fasting is not required for this blood test, so you can eat and drink as usual before your appointment. Always follow any specific instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your CD57 Natural Killer Cell Test Panel for Lyme Disease
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Test Measures | Low and High Levels of CD57 Natural Killer Cell Test Panel for Lyme Disease |
|---|---|---|---|
| CD57 (Absolute Count) | 60–360 | CD57 cells are a type of natural killer cell that help fight infections, especially those caused by bacteria like Borrelia burgdorferi. This test checks the number of these cells in your blood to see if your immune system is recovering after Lyme disease. |
High levels mean your immune system is responding well and may be recovering from infection.
Low levels mean your immune system may still be affected by Lyme disease or another chronic infection. |
| CD57 (Percentage) | 2–17 | This test shows what percent of your total lymphocytes are CD57 cells. It helps doctors see if your immune system is balanced or if there are changes linked to chronic infection. |
High levels mean a strong immune response or recovery from infection.
Low levels mean possible ongoing immune suppression or chronic infection. |
| CD8 (Absolute Count) | 300–1,000 | CD8 cells are another type of immune cell that help control infections. This test measures the number of CD8 cells to see if your immune system is working as expected. |
High levels mean your body may be fighting an infection or inflammation.
Low levels mean your immune system may be weakened or not responding to infection. |
| CD8 (Percentage) | 15–44 | This test shows the percent of your lymphocytes that are CD8 cells. It helps track immune system changes during infection or recovery. |
High levels mean active immune response or infection.
Low levels mean possible immune suppression or recovery phase. |
| Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelet (CBC) | Varies by component | A CBC checks red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. It helps find signs of infection, inflammation, or other blood changes linked to Lyme disease. |
High levels mean possible infection, inflammation, or other blood changes.
Low levels mean possible anemia, immune suppression, or other blood cell problems. |
Reference ranges may change slightly based on updates from the laboratory or new research findings. Always check your report for the most current values.
CD57 Natural Killer Cell Test Panel for Lyme Disease FAQ
Is there CD57 Natural Killer Cell Test Panel for Lyme Disease testing near me?
This test is available as a kit that can be collected at a local draw site—see the draw location link above. For people with ongoing symptoms like fatigue or joint pain, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested without extra travel or delays.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should always review your results, you can also use our one-on-one test results review service with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price for this test includes standard shipping to you and back to the lab, but draw fees may apply at your local collection site. Ordering this test can help you and your provider find out if your immune system is still affected by Lyme disease, which may help you recover faster.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3–6 months during or after Lyme disease treatment to track changes in immune cell levels. Regular testing helps you and your provider see if your immune system is improving or if further treatment is needed.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses flow cytometry to count CD57 and CD8 cells, which is a highly specific and sensitive method for measuring immune cells. The specificity is about 98% and sensitivity is around 95%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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