Question
If I have a low lymphocyte count do I have HIV?
30 September 2010. Related: All topics, HIV testing.
Dear Ms Walker,
Apologies for persevering on this matter. I had a virus this September 2010 and was asked to do a CBC test. I also had 2 HIV ELFA tests – one in Feb 2009 (96 days after exposure, the exposure in Nov 2009) and one more test in Feb 2010. Both came back non-reactive. I have had no other exposures or risks after Nov 2009.
My CBC reports absolute WBC at 7400 and my lymphocyte count was at 19% (Normal range was 20%-44%). A low lymphocyte count is associated with HIV. Is there a cause for concern in my case? Are my tests conclusive and my status HIV negative?
Answer
Thank you for your question.
The lymphocyte count overall does not indicate HIV. A CD4 T lymphocyte count is the test done when people have HIV to monitor their progression. CD4 T cells are also an indicator of when treatment should be started.
If you have tested negative for HIV twice then you do not have HIV. You have nothing to worry about.
For more information about HIV tests please follow this link
Hi Dancia,
You can’t contract HIV in the ways that you’ve described. For how you contract HIV, please see Q1 here:
http://i-base.info/qa/what-are-the-most-asked-questions
I had a blood test done a while ago where I had a low lymphocyte count. A few days ago a close friend of mine revealed she was born HIV positive. We are extremely close and share food, drinks and we have kissed before. Now I’m worried I’m HIV positive
hi Mrinmoy, other health complications can affter lymphcyte count. The answer to your other question is here:
http://i-base.info/qa/factsheets/hiv-transmission-and-testing
i want to know please,
1) is low lymphocyte only for hiv virus ?
2) is Retrovirus test result’s Non Reactive means hiv negative ?