Specimen: Capillary/venous whole blood
HIV CD4 count is a medical test used to measure the number of CD4 T-cells in the blood of a person living with HIV. CD4 T-cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in the immune system by helping to fight off infections and diseases. HIV attacks and destroys CD4 T-cells, which weakens the immune system and makes it more difficult for the body to fight off infections. Monitoring the CD4 count is important in managing HIV infection because it provides an indication of how well the immune system is functioning and how effective the HIV treatment is. The test involves collecting a blood sample from the patient and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory uses specialized equipment to count the number of CD4 T-cells in the blood. A normal CD4 count in a healthy person is typically between 500 and 1500 cells per cubic millimeter (mm3) of blood. In people living with HIV, the CD4 count can vary widely depending on the stage of infection and the effectiveness of treatment. A CD4 count below 200 cells/mm3 is considered a significant risk factor for opportunistic infections, and people with CD4 counts in this range may require preventive treatment to avoid serious infections. Regular monitoring of the CD4 count is important for people living with HIV, as it helps to guide treatment decisions and identify potential complications. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on how often you should have your CD4 count checked based on your individual medical history and treatment plan.
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