Question
I have started treatment but my numbers are confusing.
5 March 2015. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Starting treatment.
I was recently diagnosed with HIV. Labs: 918 VL, CD4 354 and 20%. I began taking Eviplera / Complera just after Christmas and have had my first lab results were VL UD and CD4 332 and now 16%. I was concerned that my percentage had dropped by 4% over such a short time. I had my CD4 repeated this week and my results are 265 and 26%. I’m very concerned that my numbers do not add up. My absolute count is heading downwards and yet my percentage has varied wildly by 10% between two tests. This is confusing me.
Answer
Hi,
The first thing to say is that these results, although they look confusing, show you have done well on treatment.
It can be frustrating that these tests are not more accurate. However you are undetectable and that is the primary aim of treatment. Your CD4 count is also significantly above where you have to worry about HIV related infections. It is good that your CD% has now risen again.
Because you have only just started treatment you could ask you clinic to take CD4 count every month or two . This way you can track your results a bit longer until your CD4 results stabilise.
You can find more information about CD4 counts and percentages on our website.
And more information about starting treatment in our online guide.
Some TB treatments are often given to people who have HIV because they are more vulnerable to catching TB. The meds protect you from getting it.
Why am i my supposed to drink TB treatment when i am HIV positive?.I don’t have TB.