CD4+ Count Test
Test Overview
A CD4+ count is a blood test to see how well the immune system, Opens dialog is working in people who have been diagnosed with HIV, Opens dialog. CD4+ cells are a type of white blood cell. White blood cells are important in fighting infections. CD4+ cells are also called T-lymphocytes, T-cells, or T-helper cells.
HIV infects CD4+ cells. The number of CD4+ cells helps determine whether other infections (opportunistic infections, Opens dialog) may occur. If HIV isn't treated, CD4+ counts generally go down as HIV gets worse. In most cases, a low CD4+ count means you have a weakened immune system and a higher chance of getting opportunistic infections.
CD4+ counts are done to:
- Keep track of how the HIV infection is affecting your immune system.
- Help diagnose AIDS, Opens dialog. If you don't get treatment, HIV infection can progress to AIDS.
- Check to see if you're at risk for other infections (opportunistic infections, Opens dialog).
- Decide whether to start treatment to prevent opportunistic infections, such as medicines to prevent Pneumocystis pneumonia.
How often your CD4+ count is checked depends on your treatment, your health, and your prior CD4+ count results.
When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
In people who have HIV, the CD4+ count almost always goes up with treatment. Low CD4+ counts make infections more likely.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
