CD4 Test

This test measures the number of CD4 cells in your blood. CD4 are white blood cells, which is also known as T-cells. These cells move throughout your body and destroy all the bacteria, viruses, and other germs in your body. This test helps determine the damage that has been caused to your immune system and what might happen next if the antiretroviral treatments are not initiated. People suffering from HIV must undergo antiretroviral treatment, regardless of the CD4 count. When the patient undergoes antiretroviral treatment, the CD4 count must increase.

If you are suffering from any infections, you must postpone this test. You must not exercise immediately before your test as it will affect the results. You must let your doctors know about any underlying medical conditions and all the medications you are under.

It helps determine how your immune system is working. Helps determine HIV virus. CD4 also helps determine if the HIV treatment is working or not. A normal CD4 count is 500-1200 cells/mm3, in adults.

It is a normal blood test. The CD4 count is done using the immunohistochemistry method. This test is not painful and will cause you only a slight discomfort.