Nitroblue tetrazolium blood test
Nitroblue Tetrazolium Blood Test
Nitroblue Tetrazolium (NBT) test is used to measure a person’s ability to make cellular energy in form of ATP. This test is usually done when a person is suspected of having inherited metabolic disorders. The test helps to diagnose conditions like shuttle deficiencies, cytochrome-c oxidase deficiencies, or nitro aromatic reductase deficiencies.
Preparation for the Test
No special preparation is required for a NBT test. However, it is important to inform the doctor about any medications that are being taken, especially antibiotics, as they may interfere with the test results.
Procedure of the Test
The NBT test is done by collecting a small sample of blood from the patient. The sample is then incubated with NBT dye and analyzed to measure the level of ATP produced. If the ATP is low, it indicates an inherited metabolic disorder.
Types of the Test
- NBT reductase deficiency test (NBT-RDT) – This type of test is used to diagnose inherited mitochondrial disorders. It measures the level of energy produced when the sample is incubated with NBT dye.
- NBT-citrate synthase deficiency test (NBT-CSDT) – This test is done to diagnose deficiencies in enzymes that are involved in the Krebs cycle. It measures the level of ATP produced when the sample is incubated with citrate synthase.
Risks of the Test
There are no major risks associated with a NBT test. The only risk is the risk of infection that is associated with any type of blood draw procedure.
Why is the Test Done?
The NBT test is done to diagnose inherited metabolic disorders, which can be caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA. The test helps to diagnose inherited mitochondrial disorders, cytochrome-c oxidase deficiencies, shuttle deficiencies, and nitro aromatic reductase deficiencies.
When is the Test Done?
The NBT test is done when a person is suspected of having an inherited metabolic disorder. It is usually done along with other tests, such as a complete blood count and a urine test.