Immunology / Chicago Bloods
LAD Test ( Leucocyte Antibody Detection Test)
Book NowLAD test measures the blocking antibodies in the prospective mothers blood to samples of white blood cells from the prospective father. This is measuring the blocking antibodies in a woman's blood to see if her immune system might be reacting to her partner's cells, which can be a factor in recurrent miscarriage or implantation failure.
This blood test includes:
Leukocyte Antibody Detection Panel; Anti-T cell Antibody (IgM, IgG), Anti-B cell Antibody (IgM, IgG).
This test requires a blood sample from the prospective mother and the prospective father.
What to do before the test:
• Fasting Requirement: No fasting required
• Stay Hydrated: It’s crucial to drink water as normal during the fasting period to maintain hydration.
Please note these bloods can only be booked for either a Monday or a Tuesday
Time needed: 15 mins
Cost: €320 (€160 per person) both partners needed
Chicago Full Panel
Book NowThe "Chicago Full Panel Blood Test" refers to a specific, comprehensive fertility panel, that assesses immune factors and reproductive health, going beyond standard panels to look at immune-embryo interactions.
Chicago FULL Panel includes NK Cell Inhibition Panel and Th1-Th2 Cytokine Ratio.
NK cells – This test measures the killing ability of Natural Killer Cells in your blood. It also looks at specific types of white cells in your blood that can cause fertility issues if elevated.
Th1:TH2 Cytokines – Cytokines are chemical messengers in the blood. High levels of TH1 proinflammatory cytokines in relation to TH2 Cytokines have shown are associated with reduced egg quality implantation failure and miscarriage.
This test also checks the NK cells against Intralipid and IVIG.
This blood test includes:
NK Cell Inhibition Panel, Th1-Th2 Cytokine Ratio.
What to do before the test:
• Fasting Requirement: No fasting required
• Stay Hydrated: It’s crucial to drink water as normal during the fasting period to maintain hydration.
Please note these bloods can only be booked for either a Monday or a Tuesday
Time needed: 15 mins
Cost: €950
Chicago Half Panel
Book NowThe "Chicago Half Panel Blood Test" is a less extensive version of a "full" Chicago panel, looking at specific markers (like NK cell activity and cytokines).
This blood test includes:
A retest of either the NK cells or Th1:Th2 Cytokines.
What to do before the test:
• Fasting Requirement: No fasting required
• Stay Hydrated: It’s crucial to drink water as normal during the fasting period to maintain hydration.
Please note these bloods can only be booked for either a Monday or a Tuesday
Time needed: 15 mins
Cost: €500
KIR Genotyping
Book NowKIR (Killer-cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptor) are a group of protein receptors on the surface of the NK cells. There is an increased risk of implantation failure and/or miscarriage if particular members of the activating KIRs are missing.
This test can be done for both partners depending on the clinics requirements.
What to do before the test:
• Fasting Requirement: No fasting required
• Stay Hydrated: It’s crucial to drink water as normal during the fasting period to maintain hydration.
Please note these bloods can only be booked for either a Monday or a Tuesday
Time needed: 15 mins
Cost: €400 (per person)
DQ Alpha (HLA DQ Alpha)
Enquire NowThis test checks which DQ alpha markers / specific Human Leukocyte Antigen types your body cells carry. This test needs to be carried out with both the prospective mother and father. If markers are similar in both (Partial match, Match) it can increase the rate of implantation failure.
What to do before the test:
• Fasting Requirement: No fasting required
• Stay Hydrated: It’s crucial to drink water as normal during the fasting period to maintain hydration.
Please note these bloods can only be booked for either a Monday or a Tuesday
Time needed: 15 mins
Cost: Please enquire
Frequently asked questions
What are Immunology or “Chicago Bloods”?
Immunology Bloods—often referred to as Chicago Bloods—are a highly specialised group of tests that assess immune system function, inflammation, autoimmune activity and complex immune-related conditions. These tests are not routinely offered in most Dublin clinics, making Acuheal Labs one of the few centres providing access to advanced immunological diagnostics.
Who are these tests suitable for?
Immunology and Chicago Bloods are commonly recommended for clients experiencing:
- Persistent or unexplained inflammation
- Chronic fatigue or immune dysfunction
- Recurring infections
- Autoimmune symptoms or suspected autoimmune disease
- Long-standing unresolved health concerns
They may also be used as part of ongoing assessment for complex chronic conditions.
Do I need a GP or consultant referral for Immunology Bloods?
No, a referral is not required. Clients can book directly.
However, if you have an existing GP, Consultant or specialist clinic, we are also happy to accept referral notes and can share your results with them if requested.
How long do Immunology / Chicago Blood results take?
Because these tests are highly specialised and laboratory processing is more complex, the results typically take 5–7 days. You will be notified as soon as they are ready, and we can provide copies for your GP, Consultant or clinic if needed.
What if the immunology test I need isn’t listed on your website?
If you require a specific test that you cannot see online, you can email us directly and we will confirm availability. In most cases, we can arrange the test with no difficulty, as we have access to a wide range of advanced immunology profiles.
Do you provide interpretation of my blood test results?
The laboratory we partner with will include a full interpretation and scale of your results, which is emailed directly to you. As we do not offer additional interpretation or follow-up medical advice, we recommend consulting your GP, Consultant or clinic if you have any concerns or require further guidance.
