more on Tc

what simple test tests for Tc function?anergy panel skin test. examples include: PPD, Candida, Trichophyton, tetanus toxoid, saline control). it is an example of delayed HS (HS 4). for a test to be +ve, Tc function must be preserved. remember, that HS1-3 is mediated by B cells.


what interferes with a anergy panel?

• corticosteroids (topical/ high dose systemic)
• anticoagulants (you get a skin induration because fibrin deposition, which is absent in settings of anticoagulants use)
• technique (i.e doctor's mistake at not injecting the antigen intradermally)
• infection (HIV = no functioning Tc, EBV, TB, leprosy)
• autoimmune disease (R.A, SLE, sarcoid)
• malnutrition
• pregnancy
• malignancy (eg: Hodgkin's lymphoma)

what assays test for Tc?
flow cytometry for CD3, 4, 8, 45 and Tc receptor