CD4 count

CD4 Count

CD4 count (pronounced: see-dee-four count) is a key indicator of the health of a person's immune system, particularly in individuals diagnosed with HIV or AIDS.

Etymology

The term "CD4" is an abbreviation for "Cluster of Differentiation 4". This is a type of glycoprotein found on the surface of certain white blood cells, including T-helper cells, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells.

Definition

A CD4 count is a blood test that measures the number of T-helper cells (CD4 cells) in a cubic millimeter of blood. These cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in maintaining the functionality of the immune system and fighting off infections.

Importance

The CD4 count is used primarily to assess the health of the immune system in people living with HIV or AIDS. A high CD4 count indicates a strong immune system, while a low CD4 count can be a sign of a weakened immune system and increased risk of opportunistic infections.

Related Terms

• T-helper cell
• White blood cell
• Immune system
• HIV or AIDS
• Opportunistic infection
• Glycoprotein

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on CD4 count
• Wikipedia's article - CD4 count

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