What types of tests are done in immunology testing?

[Anonymous]

Hi All,
I found topics on immunology on this forum but couldn't find information about specific tests that are done.
I have had multiple failures with implantation and considering to go down the immunology testing path. If I go to Dr. Braverman, what all tests should I be prepared for?
Blood work and... ? Any scraping, biopsy or other invasive testing done?
Does immunology testing require embryos also? Will they ask me to do a fresh cycle for immunology testing?
How much time is required for this and how many times will I have to make trips to NY?
Can any experienced women tell me the costs involved? I want to find out if I can afford them firstly.

[Anonymous]

The test suite depends on who you go to.

AEB will run the panel at RFU in Chicago (Rosalind Franklin University). You can look up their website and find the immunology clinic along with a list of tests they offer. They test NKs, TNF, APS, including RIP (Reproductive Immunophenotype) their website also lists descriptions of these tests and how many days they take to complete in the lab. They will also use your local lab to test ATA, ANA and other immune markers including things like beta-2 glycoprotein and fasting insulin.

Dr. Braverman will run a bunch of tests that he has developed through the lab he is now using, Reprosource. He used to use RFU as well but has since found a way to break out specific cell sets that he thinks are important. In addition to the above tests he will also get a full HLA panel, KIR test, which other doctors will not do. KIR is important for accessing implantation failure.

If you see him he'll do a complete evaluation plus a transvaginal ultrasound and bloodwork the same day. Recommend coming in on M-W so they can ship it out the same day otherwise you may be arranging to do the blood draw here which is not always easy to do. Though I have had good luck with a local phlebotomy at home service.

He requires an evaluation first and then 2 during first trimester - so 3 total (new policy). We took Amtrak up to NYC and it made the trip a lot easier. Anyone in RI is going to charge 1K for the initial consult (roughly) and for him, first trimester monitoring is 2K. My office visits were covered under my insurance.

I didn't do IVF but other than testing if the embryos are normal I don't think there is anything specific he can test them for. Reprosource has a safeguard program. If your insurance participates you will get the testing done for a set fee. Not sure what the initial testing fee is but the monitoring panels were $487 and did not include HLA and KIR since he only does those with the initial panel. I'm sure if you contact someone from Reprosource and tell them you are considering seeing Dr. Braverman they can tell you if your insurance participates in the safeguard program and also tell you how much it will be.

He's not cheap but he's the best and I would not be having my second baby if not for him and his staff.

[Anonymous]

Just to clarify, reprosource is not a lab, it is the middle man. The tests are still done at RFU. I did two neupogen cycles with Braverman after he found multiple HLA matches and other immune issues.

[Anonymous]

Thanks PP for the detailed info! That helps!

Just curious to know - Is there anyone who went through immunology testing and had all reports normal?

[Anonymous]

13:59 Reprosource is not just the middle man anymore their lab is actually running the specialized tests for Dr. Braverman now. He has worked with the lab director to have these specialized tests offered. My first successful pregnancy in 2011 had everything run through RFU whereas this time around everything went through Reprosource. If you see these latest results you will automatically know they are not even remotely the same. He is testing so many more cell subsets that the results are 7 pages long.

I have heard of a few people whose results were normal who did not receive treatment.