Q and A

Question

What does it mean if my CD4 count increases but my CD4% doesn't?

Hi,

First off thanks for all the information on the site it’s helpful and often really reassuring!

I was diagnosed last year with a CD4 of 98 and after being on Atripla for a year my recent labs were CD4 323 and 16%. While my CD4 has been steadily increasing (98 – 196 – 225 – 272 – 323) the percentage figure has remained at 16% (for the last two labs and 15% previously). I’ve read that this is often viewed as a more reliable indicator of immune health and I think I understand the concept (using the red and green apples in a basket example) but does it mean that in reality the improvements have not been so substantial? Or is the percentage remaining low because my CD8s are increasing?

I have never been told my CD8 counts should I ask for these on the next visit? At what level of CD4 could I realistically expect my percentage to begin improving? Thanks for your help

Answer

Thank you for your question.

Firstly, I think it is important to say that your increase in CD4 count since you started treatment is fantastic. Whilst percentages are important for looking at the immune system as a whole, CD4 counts are what we really want to see increasing.

You should not be too worried about your percentage. All it means is that your immune system as a whole is improving and all cells (CD4 and CD8) are recovering at the same rate. You may see an increase in the CD4 percentage in the future or you may not. What is important is that your CD4 count is good.

CD4 percentages are mainly useful when people are seeing large fluctuations in their CD4 counts. In this instance the percentage may be more reliable to assess the changes in CD4 cells. Generally it is the CD4 count that matters.

For more information about CD4 counts and CD4% please follow this link

3 comments

  1. Lisa Thorley

    Hi Princess.

    A CD4 count of 475 is great, its within the normal range for a person who is negative.

  2. Princess

    I started taking tablets in December 2015 my cd4 was 200 and now its 475 is it showing improvement or what. It was once went up 500 then l got sick last year in December with bells palsey

  3. AD

    Thanks for your response. I reasoned that it was probabaly due to an increase in both (CD4 and CD8) but I guess I was just curious to make sure.

    Thanks again.

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