Alternative Name(s): Cluster of Differentiation 1a, Non-polymorphic MHC class 1-related cell surface glycoprotein
Test Description
CD1a is a transmembrane glycoprotein which is structurally related to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins and is expressed in association with β macroglobulin. The protein is expressed on cortical thymocytes, Langerhans cells (antigen presenting cells present in skin and epithelia), interdigitating dendritic cells, and rare antigenpresenting cells of lymph nodes. CD1a antigen expression has been demonstrated to be useful to differentiate Langerhans cells from interdigitating cells. It aids in identifying some T-cell lymphomas and leukemias.