CD4 Count Test for HIV immune function and Opportunistic infection (OI) prophylaxis

CD4 Count Test for HIV immune function and Opportunistic infection (OI) prophylaxis

CD4 Count Test, a key medical tool, measures immune system strength. It's mainly used for managing HIV and tracking treatment effectiveness. Explore its role in health here!

 

CD4 Count Test

Here are the basic details of the CD4 Count Test.

Also Known As CD4 T-Cell Count Test
Type Blood Test
Purpose Monitor Immune System & HIV Progress
Sample Type Whole blood
Preparation None
Fasting Not Required
Gender Unisex
Age Group All
Normal Value Varies by parameters
Reporting Time A few days
Cost 1000-2000 INR*

*CD4 Count Test Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

 

CD4 Count Test Means

CD4 Count Test measures white blood cell levels, assessing immune system health.

  • It's crucial for HIV monitoring, helping to track disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
  • T-lymphocyte count is determined through a blood sample.
  • Regular CD4 tests are essential for early intervention and proactive care.
  • Low CD4 counts indicate a weakened immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections in HIV-positive individuals.

 

CD4 Count Test Purpose

The purpose of the CD4 Count Test is to:

  • CD4 Count Test serves as a vital tool for evaluating immune system health.
  • It is primarily used for monitoring HIV/AIDS progression and treatment effectiveness.
  • Helps guide healthcare decisions and initiation of antiretroviral therapy.
  • Low CD4 counts signify advanced HIV infection and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections.
  • Regular CD4 testing is essential in managing HIV and ensuring timely intervention.

CD4 Count Test_ Price, Normal Range, Result, Purpose, Meaning and Interpretation - Drlogy Test

 

CD4 Count Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the CD4 Count Test.

 

Before Test

  • No special preparation is needed before a CD4 Count Test.
  • Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or medical conditions.
  • Stay hydrated for easier blood sample collection.

 

During Test

  • A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from your arm.
  • You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort during the blood draw.
  • Stay relaxed and follow the instructions of the healthcare provider.

 

After Test

  • There are no specific post-test precautions or restrictions.
  • You can resume your regular activities immediately.
  • Await test results and discuss them with your healthcare provider.

 

CD4 Count Test Procedure

Here is the basic CD4 Count Test Procedure.

  • A healthcare professional collects a blood sample from a vein in your arm.
  • The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
  • The laboratory measures the number of CD4 cells in the blood.
  • Test results are typically available within a few days.
  • Discuss the results with your healthcare provider for interpretation and guidance.

 

CD4 Count Test Result

  • CD4 Cell Count: Indicates the number of CD4 cells in your blood.
  • Disease Progression: Lower counts suggest a weakened immune system and advanced HIV infection.
  • Treatment Effectiveness: Increasing counts with antiretroviral therapy indicate a positive response to treatment.

 

CD4 Count Test Normal Range

Here is the normal range of the CD4 Count Test.

Age Group Reference Range (/uL)
0 - 2 months 1600 - 4000
3 - 5 months 1800 - 4000
6 - 11 months 1400 - 4300
12 months - 2 years 1300 - 3400
2 - 5 years 700 - 2200
6 - 11 years 650 - 1500
12 - 17 years 530 - 1300
18 - 55 years 424 - 1509
> 55 years 430 - 1513

 

CD4 Count Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the CD4 Count Test.

CD4 Count (cells/mm³) Interpretation
Below 200 Severe immune suppression (AIDS)
200 - 500 Moderate immune suppression
500 - 1,200 Normal range for adults and teens
Above 1,200 Strong immune response

 

CD4 Count Test High Levels

Here are potential causes of high levels of CD4 count Test.

Possible Causes Effects
Acute Infections May indicate an active immune response.
Autoimmune Disorders Certain conditions can elevate CD4 counts.
Medications Some drugs may cause temporary increases.
Lymphoproliferative Disorders Uncommon, but can impact CD4 levels.
Chronic Inflammatory Conditions May raise CD4 counts due to immune activity.

Elevated CD4 counts may result from infections, autoimmune disorders, medications, and certain medical conditions.

 

CD4 Count Test Low Levels

Here are potential causes of low levels of CD4 count Test.

Possible Causes Effects
HIV/AIDS Common cause of severely low CD4 counts.
Opportunistic Infections Complications can lead to CD4 decline.
Immunodeficiency Disorders Underlying conditions affect CD4 levels.
Medications Certain drugs may suppress the immune system.
Advanced Cancer Aggressive cancers may impact CD4 counts.

Low CD4 counts can be attributed to HIV/AIDS, infections, immunodeficiency, medications, and advanced cancers.

 

Specimen Requirements For CD4 Count Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the CD4 Count Test.

Specimen

Whole blood

Volume

Fill tube(s) to capacity

Container

Lavender-top (EDTA) tube and yellow-top (ACD-A or ACD-B) tube

Collection

Invert tube 8-10 times after collection. Send to lab within 48 hours, label with date and time.

Storage

Room temperature

Sample Stability

Temperature

Period

Room temperature

2 days

Refrigerated

Unstable

Frozen

Unstable

Freeze/thaw cycles

Unstable

Causes for Rejection

Hemolysis; specimen refrigerated or frozen; clotted specimen; contaminated specimen

 

CD4 Count Test is Safe?

CD4 Count Test is safe, involving a simple blood draw.

  • Minimal discomfort during collection; no major risks or side effects.
  • Routine, well-established procedure.
  • Healthcare professionals adhere to strict safety protocols.
  • Ensures vital information for managing immune health.

 

When Do You Get CD4 Count Test Results? 

  • CD4 Count Test results typically available within a few days.
  • Exact reporting time may vary by the laboratory and location.
  • Consult your healthcare provider for result interpretation.
  • Results essential for monitoring immune system health.
  • Timely feedback aids in managing health effectively.

 

CD4 Count Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of CD4 Count Test.

  • CD4 Count Test provides a snapshot of immune health, not overall health.
  • Results may fluctuate, even within a single day, due to various factors.
  • Test doesn't diagnose specific conditions; it's used mainly for HIV management.
  • Results may not reflect how a person feels or functions.
  • Interpretation should consider trends over time, not just a single result.

 

CD4 Count Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the CD4 Count Test.

  • No inherent risk factors associated with the CD4 Count Test.
  • Minor discomfort or bruising at the blood collection site is possible.
  • No long-term health risks associated with the test.
  • Risks are primarily related to the blood draw procedure itself.
  • Standard safety measures are followed by healthcare professionals.

 

Doctor Recommendations After CD4 Count Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the CD4 Count Test.

CD4 Count Level Doctor to Consult Reason
High (Above 1,200) Primary Care Physician Evaluate immune health
Normal (500-1,200) Routine Checkup Discuss general health
Low (Below 200) Infectious Disease Specialist HIV management and treatment

 

CD4 Count Test Price

Here are the estimated CD4 Count Test Prices in India with different top cities:

City

Price Range (INR)*

Mumbai

1000-2000

New Delhi

1000-2000

Bangalore

1000-2000

Hyderabad

1000-2000

Kolkata

1000-2000

Pune

1000-2000

Lucknow

1000-2000

Noida

1000-2000

Surat

1000-2000

Gurugram

1000-2000

Patna

1000-2000

Chennai

1000-2000

Jaipur

1000-2000

Ahmedabad

1000-2000

*CD4 Count Test Price are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

 

Summary

Overall, The CD4 Count Test assesses immune health, crucial for HIV management. Results guide treatment decisions. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

 

Reference

  • CD4 - Wikipedia [1].
  • CD4 Count - NIH [2].
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CD4 Count Test FAQ

What is the normal CD4 count?

The normal CD4 count in adults ranges from 500 to 1,500 cells per cubic millimeter (mm³) of blood.

What is the full form of CD4?

CD4 stands for Cluster of Differentiation 4, a glycoprotein found on the surface of immune cells, primarily T-helper cells.

What happens when CD4 count is low?

A low CD4 count indicates a weakened immune system, making the individual susceptible to infections and complications. Monitoring is crucial.

What is the function of the CD4?

CD4 plays a vital role in the immune system by assisting T cells in recognizing and responding to pathogens, coordinating the immune response.

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