CD4+ Cells - Topic Overview
CD4+ cells are part of the immune system and are a type of white blood cell. White blood cells protect the body against infection. CD4+ cells are also called T-lymphocytes, T-cells, or T-helper cells.
HIV invades and destroys CD4+ cells. But the body continues to produce new CD4+ cells to fight the HIV infection. If the infection is not treated with medications, the body gradually loses the ability to produce enough CD4+ cells to replace the number that are being destroyed by HIV. As the number of CD4+ cells in the blood drops, it becomes more difficult for the immune system to fight infections.
A variety of HIV risk factors can increase your chances of becoming infected with a virus called HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). This infection can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which makes it more difficult for your body to fight off infection and disease. Some risk factors increase your HIV risk more than others. You can't entirely eliminate risk, but you can do many things to lower your risk and protect yourself.
Read the HIV/AIDS Risk Factors article > >
CD4+ counts are measured every 3 to 4 months in people who are infected with HIV. The CD4+ count is an important measurement of how HIV is affecting your immune system and can help you decide when to begin treatment for HIV or when you need to try a different combination of medicines.
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