cd4+ cells

overview

a cd4+ count is a blood test to see how well the immune system is working in people who have been diagnosed with hiv. 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) 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.

why is a cd4+ count done?

cd4+ counts are done to:

keep track of how the hiv infection is affecting your immune system.
help diagnose aids. 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).
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.

related information

credits

current as of: may 13, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

advertisement