NK cell test?

[luthien]

So because I have endometriosis and hypothyroidism I have been researching into possible immune responses to conceiving.

Research suggests that an NK cell test may be a good idea to see the immune response, however most fertility clinics ignore this result unless they suggest it themselves.

I can have the test done privately for around £200, but is it worth it? Will the clinic actually pay attention to it, or ignore it until they suggest it?

This will be my first IVF cycle, we are going privately, so kind of want to be prepared. Surely if the result is high, they need to pay attention, or is it simply that they need to go through their process first?

[WeeJacs]

Hi

Not really sure what clinic but £200 seems pretty cheap. NK killer cell is just 1 of the immune tests which can be done. I have endometriosis too, after 3 ivf attempts with 2 miscarriages and 1 failed we are now looking in to immune testing before try again. Like u say some clinics don’t recognise these tests unfortunately you need to find a consultant who has experience in this field. If you haven’t already read is my body baby friendly it’s great. Clinic recommendations in that too. We had our consultation yesterday with a very experienced doctor in this field even although our frozen embryo is elsewhere at our previous clinic but they don’t offer immune testing of any kind x

[letro112]

I def recommend immune testing. Also had endometriosis removed and had a number of pregnancies fail. Did the Chicago bloods earlier in the year and my nk cells and cytokins were the highest my doctor had seen. Currently on a full immune protocol - humira, plaquenil, medicinal mushrooms, steroids, ivig, clexane, aspirin. Depending in your results will reflect how intense an immune protocol will be needed. We haven't had success yet but am hopeful something might work this side if Christmas

[Hopenevergiveup]

Hi there I just read your post. I also have hypothyroidism and have had endometriosis issues so have had difficulty getting pregnant. I am 43 however so not surprised it’s been a struggle. I had my NK levels tested end of last year and they were much higher than normal so have been on an immune treatment plan for a few months. £200 seems v v cheap. I paid a lot more than that as blood samples needed to be sent to the USA. Will be doing IVF for the first time at the end of of the month so praying it will all make a difference. 100% recommend looking into this X

[Hanj10]

I would agree with everyone elses comments but also worth noting that there are 2 kinds of NK cell testing - the endometrial biopsy for uterine NK cells and the blood NK cell testing or 'Chicago' tests as it's sent to a lab in Chicago! My blood test was £700 and the biopsy was I think £500. For me the biopsy came back borderline normal but the bloods came back really high so I did Intralipids, Clexane, Aspirin, Steroids and my 2nd FET worked. Good luck

[luthien in reply to Hanj10]

Mine looks to be the blood test.

I may see how this first cycle goes as I'm due to start sniffing on 12th September. Then discuss the NK blood test possibility with my specialist; they may be happy with me having that done at my private GP, or they may want to do it themselves; I can't see any difference though just costs, as from what everyone says they seem to go to the same place.

Congrats on the second FET