CD4 / CD8 Count

The immune system is the body’s defense against germs and illnesses. It uses various types of cells, including lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. T-lymphocytes, or T-cells, are key players in this defense. The CD4 / CD8 Count test checks the count of two important T-cell types:

• CD4+ T-cells (Helper T-cells): These cells act like the "military generals" of the immune system. They tell other immune cells what to do to fight off infections.
• CD8+ T-cells (Cytotoxic T-cells): These cells are the "soldiers" that directly kill infected cells and cancer cells.

The CD4 / CD8 Count test measures the number of these cells and then calculates the ratio of CD4 to CD8 cells. A normal ratio indicates a healthy immune system. A low ratio can point to a problem. For example, in HIV, the virus attacks and destroys CD4 cells, causing the CD4 count and ratio to drop significantly. This weakens the immune system, making a person more susceptible to infections.

Doctors often use the CD4 / CD8 Count test to monitor the progression of HIV and see how well a person is responding to treatment. It is also used as a supportive tool to evaluate immune system status in certain autoimmune conditions and cancers, helping assess immune function rather than diagnose disease.

No special preparation is required for the CD4 / CD8 Count test. Inform the doctor about any medicines or supplements being taken, as they might affect the results.

Test result ranges are estimates and may vary slightly between labs depending on their methods and guidelines. Do not self-medicate based on the results, and always talk to a doctor to understand the report correctly.

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.