1.10 CD4 differences between adults and children
Children generally have higher CD4 counts than adults. Babies have higher CD4 counts than children.
- Children under 12 years old with HIV are monitored by CD4% rather than absolute CD4 count.
- After the age of about 60, the adult CD4 count drops gradually.
Table: CD4% and CD4 counts for babies and children
| HIV disease category | CD4% | CD4 0-12 months old | CD4 1-5 years old | CD4 6-12 years old |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – no damage | 25% or over | over 1,500 | over 1,000 | over 500 |
| 2 – moderate | 15-24% | 750-1,500 | 500-1,000 | 200-500 |
| 3 – severe | under 15% | under 750 | under 500 | under 200 |
ART is now recommended for children of all ages.
The 2021 WHO guidelines include a detailed discussion on why this is important.
Direct link. (PDF download)
Last updated: 1 January 2023.