A normal CD4 count typically ranges from 500 to 1400 cells per cubic millimeter of blood. This measurement helps assess the health of the immune system.
Understanding CD4 Counts
CD4 cells, also known as T cells, are a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in the immune system. They help coordinate the immune response to infections. A CD4 count is a laboratory test that measures the number of these cells in a sample of blood.
Based on standard health guidelines, a normal CD4 count falls within a specific range. According to the provided information, a normal CD4 count is from 500 to 1400 cells per cubic millimeter of blood. This range is considered healthy and indicates that the immune system is functioning effectively.
What is a Normal Range?
The "normal" range represents the typical number of CD4 cells found in healthy individuals. Values outside this range may suggest an underlying health condition affecting the immune system.
Here is a simple breakdown of the normal range:
| CD4 Count (cells/mm³) | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 500 - 1400 | Normal Range |
It is important to note that CD4 counts can fluctuate slightly over time, and a single measurement should be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of an individual's overall health.
Factors Affecting CD4 Counts
Several factors can influence CD4 counts, including:
- Time of day
- Presence of other infections
- Overall health status
Specifically, the provided reference highlights a crucial point regarding certain medical conditions and their treatment: CD4 counts go down over time if you do not take ART. ART, or Antiretroviral Therapy, is a treatment commonly used for conditions like HIV. This underscores the importance of appropriate medical treatment in maintaining healthy CD4 levels when necessary.
Understanding your CD4 count is a key part of monitoring immune health, particularly for individuals managing conditions that affect the immune system.
