What is CD56 Test?
Killer cells, a part of the immune system, are one of the factors that play a key role in conception. When Natural Killer cells, also called CD56, overpopulate in innermost layer of the womb (endometrium), both normal and IVF pregnancies are influenced negatively and attachment of the embryo to the uterus may fail. CD56 test plays a role to determine concentration of killer cells in uterus.
For Whom CD56 Test is Performed?
CD56 test is recommended for
- Patients who have history of 2 or more miscarriages,
- Patients who could not achieve pregnancy in spite of transfer of 3 or more quality embryos in prior in vitro fertilization treatments.
How is CD56 Test Performed?
A small tissue specimen, in other words a biopsy, is obtained from the innermost layer of womb between days 21 and 24 of menstrual cycle under anesthesia and it is sent to pathology laboratory for examination. The pathologist defines the number of killer cells using special staining techniques. If the concentration is found high, additional treatments regulating the immune system are employed to balance the killer cell rate in an attempt to increase the chance of pregnancy. When necessary conditions are fulfilled, embryo transfer is performed.