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NK-lymphocytes (CD56) in the blood

Medical expert of the article

Pediatric immunologist
, Medical Reviewer, Editor
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025

Normally, the number of CD56 lymphocytes in the blood of adults is 9-19%.

CD56 lymphocytes are effector cells of cellular immunity responsible for antiviral, antitumor and transplant immunity (see above CD16 lymphocytes). A decrease in the number of CD56 lymphocytes leads to the development of oncological diseases and aggravation of the course of viral infections.

Diseases and conditions that lead to changes in the number of CD56 lymphocytes in the blood

Increase in the indicator

Decrease in the indicator

Activation of anti-transplant immunity:

  • donor rejection crisis
  • organs in recipients;
  • antibody-dependent enhancement
  • cell mediated
  • cytotoxicity

Oncological diseases

Secondary immunodeficiency states.

HIV infection

Congenital defects of the immune system

Severe viral infections

Severe burns, injuries, stress

Treatment with cytostatics, immunosuppressants, glucocorticosteroids

Ionizing radiation

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