CD4/CD8 Absolute Counts CD3/4/8/45 by Flow Cytometry

• Test Name: CD4/CD8 Absolute Counts with CD3/4/8/45 by Flow Cytometry
• Purpose: Measures the absolute counts and percentages of CD4 and CD8 T cells, as well as other lymphocyte subsets, to assess immune status.
• Principle: Utilizes flow cytometry to identify and quantify lymphocyte subsets based on specific surface markers.
• Sample Type: Peripheral blood.
• Methodology: Flow cytometry analysis using monoclonal antibodies tagged with fluorescent dyes to detect CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD45 markers.

• Immune Status Monitoring: Evaluates immune function, particularly in patients with HIV/AIDS or other immunodeficiency disorders.
• Infection and Disease Monitoring: Assesses immune response in infections, autoimmune diseases, and malignancies.
• Therapy Monitoring: Tracks the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV patients and other immunomodulatory treatments.
• Bone Marrow Transplant: Monitors engraftment and immune reconstitution post-transplant.
• Clinical Research: Utilized in studies to understand immune system dynamics in various diseases.

• CD4 T Cell Count: Quantifies the number of CD4+ T cells, critical for immune function.
• CD8 T Cell Count: Measures the number of CD8+ T cells, important for cytotoxic immune responses.
• CD3 T Cell Count: Provides total T cell count as CD3 is a marker present on all T cells.
• CD45 Marker: Used to identify and gate lymphocytes in flow cytometry.
• Flow Cytometry Analysis: Includes the use of monoclonal antibodies specific to CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD45, with fluorescence detection.

• CD4 Count: Low CD4 count (<200 cells/µL) may indicate significant immunodeficiency, often seen in advanced HIV infection.
• CD8 Count: Elevated CD8 count can occur in viral infections or certain malignancies; low count may be seen in some immunodeficiencies.
• CD4/CD8 Ratio: A low ratio (<1) is often associated with HIV/AIDS and other immunodeficiencies; a high ratio may indicate immune activation.
• Total Lymphocyte Count: Provides overall immune status, including both T cells and other lymphocyte populations.
• Clinical Correlation: Results should be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other laboratory findings for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

• Positive Result: Elevated or reduced CD4 and/or CD8 counts, indicating potential immune dysfunction or activation.
• Negative Result: Normal CD4 and CD8 counts, suggesting no significant immunodeficiency.
• Quantitative Values: Provides specific cell counts and percentages for CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD45 markers.
• Reference Range: Age and health status-specific reference ranges are provided to aid in result interpretation.
• Clinical Recommendations: Results guide clinical decision-making, including therapy adjustments and further diagnostic testing.

Q: What is the purpose of the CD4/CD8 Absolute Counts CD3/4/8/45 by Flow Cytometry Test?
The test measures the absolute counts and percentages of CD4 and CD8 T cells to assess immune function and diagnose immunodeficiency conditions
 

Q: How is the CD4/CD8 Absolute Counts test performed?
A blood sample is analyzed using flow cytometry, where cells are labelled with fluorescent antibodies specific to CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD45 markers
 

Q: What do low CD4 counts indicate?
Low CD4 counts can indicate significant immunodeficiency, commonly seen in advanced HIV infection and other immune disorders
 

Q: How is the CD4/CD8 ratio used in clinical practice?
The CD4/CD8 ratio helps in assessing immune balance; a low ratio is often seen in HIV/AIDS, while a high ratio can indicate immune activation
 

Q: Can this test monitor treatment effectiveness?
Yes, it is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments such as antiretroviral therapy in HIV patients and other immunomodulatory therapies
 

Q: What does an elevated CD8 count signify?
Elevated CD8 counts can be seen in viral infections, certain malignancies, or immune activation conditions
 

Q: Are there any preparations required for this test?
No special preparations are required, but inform your doctor about any medications or health conditions that may affect the results.