What are other Names for this Test? (Equivalent Terms)

• Immune Suppressant Medications Blood Test

What is Immunosuppressant Medications Blood Test? (Background Information)

• Immunosuppressant medications are administered to intentionally lower the body’s immune system to increase the chances of a successful organ transplant, or to combat disorders involving excessive or inappropriate immune activity
• During an organ transplant, the individual is injected with a large dose of immunosuppressant medications to ensure that the body’s immune system does not initially reject the organ. Following a successful organ transplant, the individual is put on an immunosuppressant treatment program to prevent an immune reaction and rejection of the organ
• Immunosuppressant medications are also given to individuals experiencing certain immune disorders involving abnormal immune activity. Such disorders include systemic lupus erythematosus and eczema
• Common immunosuppressant medications include cyclosporin A, sirolimus, and tacrolimus. As an example:
  • Tacrolimus works by preventing T-lymphocytes, a type of specialized white blood cell, from producing interleukin-2 (IL-2)
  • IL-2 causes the growth and division of T-lymphocytes. Thus, by preventing its production, tacrolimus suppresses the immune system
• Immunosuppressant medications must be kept within a certain range to prevent unwanted effects. If the levels are too high, it may result in toxicity; if the levels are too low, the drug may not be of a therapeutic use
• The Immunosuppressants Medications Blood Test helps determine the level of immune suppressant medications in blood. It aids in adjusting the initial dose and in ensuring that levels of immunosuppressant medications stay within an acceptable range

What are the Clinical Indications for performing the Immunosuppressant Medications Blood Test?

The clinical indications for performing the Immunosuppressant Medications Blood Test include monitoring immunosuppressant therapy.

How is the Specimen Collected for Immunosuppressant Medications Blood Test?

Following is the specimen collection process for Immunosuppressant Medications Blood Test:

Sample required: Blood

Process of obtaining a blood sample in adults:

• A band is wrapped around the arm, 3-4 inches above the collection site (superficial vein that lies within the elbow pit)
• The site is cleaned with 70% alcohol in an outward spiral, away from the zone of needle insertion
• The needle cap is removed and is held in line with the vein, pulling the skin tight
• With a small and quick thrust, the vein is penetrated using the needle
• The required amount of blood sample is collected by pulling the plunger of the syringe out slowly
• The wrap band is removed, gauze is placed on the collection site, and the needle is removed
• The blood is immediately transferred into the blood container, which has the appropriate preservative/clot activator/anti-coagulant
• The syringe and the needle are disposed into the appropriate “sharp container” for safe and hygienic disposal

Preparation required: No special preparation is needed prior to the test.

What is the Significance of the Immunosuppressant Medications Blood Test Result?

The significance of the Immunosuppressant Medications Blood Test result is explained.

• A high value for the test may indicate immunosuppressant toxicity, which is marked by:
  • Seizures
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea
  • Rapid heart rate
• A low value for the test may indicate that more immunosuppressants are needed to achieve a therapeutic dose

The laboratory test results are NOT to be interpreted as results of a "stand-alone" test. The test results have to be interpreted after correlating with suitable clinical findings and additional supplemental tests/information. Your healthcare providers will explain the meaning of your tests results, based on the overall clinical scenario.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information:

• Immune suppressing medications may cause certain unwanted side effects as a result of immune system suppression. This includes increased susceptibility to infections
• Derivatives of immunosuppressant medications, such as tacrolimus, are used in research applications

Certain medications that you may be currently taking may influence the outcome of the test. Hence, it is important to inform your healthcare provider, the complete list of medications (including any herbal supplements) you are currently taking. This will help the healthcare provider interpret your test results more accurately and avoid unnecessary chances of a misdiagnosis.

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/common-procedures/procedures-laboratory/quantitative-immunoglobulins-test/

Please visit our Laboratory Procedures Center for more physician-approved health information:

http://www.dovemed.com/common-procedures/procedures-laboratory/