Question
Why is my CD4 count and viral load healthy when I am not on medication?
17 June 2022. Related: Adherence, All topics, CD4 and viral load.
I have been HIV positive for 12 years. No health problems and no treatment. Present CD4 count 651 and viral load undetected.
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
Have you ever had a confirmatory test for HIV?
Your CD4 count and viral load are excellent. Both within ranges of someone HIV negative or someone HIV positive on treatment.
However there is one further reason. Have you come across the term Elite Controller? These are a very rare group of people with HIV whose body naturally suppresses HIV.
This means they test HIV positive but their immune system is strong enough to suppress it without treatment.
How regularly do you have CD4 and viral load testing? Being an Elite Controller means that HIV does not have an impact but it is not determined if and when your body will start being impacted by HIV. This is why regular testing is needed.
Josh.
Hi John, as an Elite Controller your body will suppress your viral load and your CD4 count will remain healthy. The reason why it is recommended to take medication is that it is unknown if your body will continue to suppress HIV or if it will start to effect your health.
Taking medication also allows you to rely on U=U: https://i-base.info/u-equals-u/ While you currently have an undetectable viral load and there is no risk to your partner, not being on medication introduces a risk where your body may no longer suppress HIV. This putting both you and your partner at risk.
Have you spoken with your doctor about starting/considering to start treatment?
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