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.

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Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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