HomeAnswersHIV/AIDS specialisthivMy CD8 cells count is high. Am I HIV positive?

What should be the CD4 and CD8 counts now of a person infected with HIV 15 years back?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Infanteena Marily F.

Published At December 23, 2021
Reviewed AtDecember 23, 2021

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had my CD4 and CD8 profile ratio. I have noted my result as CD4-1350 cells/mm3 of blood (31.4%), CD8-1746 cells/mm3 of blood (40.6%) (High). The ratio is 0.77, which suggests it is low, ABS Lymphs - 4.3 lymphocytes/µL of blood (High). And all other CBC profiles are in the normal range. I searched the web, and the results suggest that low CD4 and CD8 ratios are due to HIV. I have never tested for HIV, So I do not know my status. Right now, I am stressed due to the results. Could you please explain what might be the cause of high CD8 counts? However, CD4 counts seem to be normal. Also, I have to mention that I had a sexual encounter 15 years ago with a person whose status was unknown. Hypothetically, If I was infected at that time, what should be my CD4 and CD8 counts now? Please help!

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for the query. I understand your concern. As per the details given, CD4 (cluster of differentiation 4) counts have not decreased. CD8 (cluster of differentiation 8) and absolute lymphocytes count is elevated. This can be due to infections, medical conditions, aging, smoking, or other addictions. This elevated count can be a temporary phase as not all risk exposure can lead to HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus). To ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, I suggest you should take an HIV antibodies test. If HIV tests turn negative, you can repeat these lymphocyte tests after a few days. If it is still higher, I suggest you consult a physician or hematologist to evaluate this condition further.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the response.

Please answer the below questions so I can gain some clarity. Do CD4 counts of 1350 cells/mm3 of blood make sure the patient is negative? What is the normal range? What are my chances of being HIV positive based on your experience? If I was infected, should my CD4 counts be drastically decreased after 15 years? What I know is HIV mainly affects CD4 counts. Is that true? What are the infections or conditions that might increase CD8 and lymphocyte counts? I am a chronic smoker. Is that the cause, as you mentioned? If I was infected, what should be CD4 counts after 15 years?

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I completely understand your doubts and concerns. I can help you gain some clarity for the above. As HIV affects CD4 cells, the count can come down. This count depends on various factors such as viral load, diet, nutritional intake, immune status, etc. Usually, the normal range for CD4 is 500 to 1500 cells/mm3 of blood. CD8 cells count can be higher due to infections, smoking, alcohol, stress, etc. Repeated checks and continuous evaluation are suggested to gain clarity of the condition. There is no timeline for the infection, but in a span of 10 to 15 years, if you were HIV positive, the value should have reduced. I would suggest you take an HIV antibody test. If you still have higher counts, please seek help from a physician to understand in detail your condition.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra
Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra

Dermatology

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