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Cd4 Count Test

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Why am I having this test?
The CD4 count test is performed if you have been diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). For AIDS patients, the purpose of the test is:
To determine the current status and outlook of the disease.
To determine when to begin antiviral therapy for HIV or AIDS and to monitor this treatment.
The CD4 count test can also be used to help confirm a diagnosis of certain types of leukemia.
If you have HIV, your health care provider may recommend that this test be performed every 3–6 months.
What is being tested?
This test checks for any reduction in the level of CD4 cells in the blood. CD4 cells are a type of white blood cells that fight infection. They are also known as T-helper cells. These cells are …show more content…

This test, along with the viral load test, can help determine your risk for developing other infections. The viral load test measures the level of HIV in the blood.
Increasing amounts of CD4 cells indicate that your antiviral therapy is working.
What kind of sample is taken?
A blood sample is required for this test. It is usually collected by inserting a needle into a blood vessel.
How do I prepare for this test?
There is no preparation required for this test.
What are the reference values?
How are the results reported?
You may have to wait for a few days for the test results to be finalized. Your test results will be reported as a range of values and percentages. You will compare your results to normal ranges and percentages that were established after testing a large group of healthy people. Reference ranges may vary among different people, labs, and hospitals. For this test, reference ranges and percentages are:
T cells
Percent: 60–95.
Number of cells per microliter (mcL): 800–2,500.
T-helper (CD4) cells
Percent: 60–75.
Number of cells per mcL: 600–1,500.
T-suppressor (CD8) cells
Percent:

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