CD 4/CD 8

A CD 4/CD 8 test helps assess the health of your immune system. It measures the levels of two types of immune cells, CD 4 T-cells and CD 8 T-cells, in your blood. The test is particularly significant in monitoring and managing conditions related to the immune system.

CD 4 T-cells are a type of white blood cells also known as helper cells that assist in coordinating the immune response against infections and diseases. These help activate other immune cells and direct the body's defense mechanisms. CD 8 T-cells are another type of white blood cell that act as killer cells. They are responsible for identifying and destroying infected or abnormal cells in the body, such as virus-infected cells or cancer cells. A ratio between the number of CD 4 T-cells and CD 8 T-cells in the blood helps assess the immune system's health and identify any imbalances or abnormalities that might indicate certain health conditions.

The CD 4/CD 8 test is essential in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of various immune-related disorders, including autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiencies, and certain infections. The test results are expressed as both percentages or absolute counts of each type of T-cell. It aids doctors in tailoring appropriate treatment plans and evaluating the effectiveness of therapies.