Also Known As

CD4 Lymphocyte Count, CD4 Percent, CD4+ Count, T4 Count, T-Helper Cell Count

The Purpose of a CD4 Blood Test

If you have HIV, it’s vital to ensure your immune system is as strong as possible. A CD4 test monitors your immune health by tracking the number of CD4 cells (also called T-helper cells) in your body. These white blood cells are key to fighting infection and are produced in response to germs, bacteria, and other foreign substances when they enter the body. If you contract the human immunodeficiency virus, the HIV cells attach to CD4 cells and try to destroy them. This decreases the number of CD4 cells you have, which weakens the immune system and puts you at higher risk for other infections.

What Does the CD4 Test Measure?

This test gives you an accurate count of the CD4 cells in your blood. Once you are diagnosed with HIV, you’ll take this test to determine your baseline number of T-helper cells. Then, two to eight weeks after treatment has begun, you’re typically retested every three months. This gives you a clear picture of your immune health as well as the effectiveness of your treatment. (If you suspect you have HIV but haven’t confirmed it yet, learn more about diagnostic testing.)

Who Should Take a CD4 Count Test?

CD4 testing is recommended for anyone who has HIV and needs to monitor their health status.

CD4 Lab Test Preparation

There’s no special preparation required before your blood test for a CD4 count.

CD4 Blood Test Results

CD4 count test results for adults generally fall into these categories:

• Low: Less than 500 cells per cubic millimeter
• Normal: 500 to 1,200 cells per cubic millimeter
• High: More than 1,200 cells per cubic millimeter

It’s important to note that a CD4 lab test may also be used to diagnose AIDS. In those cases, the T-helper cell count is a maximum of 200 cells per cubic millimeter.

Where Can I Get CD4 Testing Near Me?

Monitoring your CD4 count is an essential way to take control of your health. And because you need to be tested on a regular basis, you want the process to be simple. With Personalabs, it’s easy and convenient to get a blood test for CD4 count:

Step 1: Purchase the test from us and download the lab order. (Depending on the state where you live, you may not need consent from a doctor before buying the test.)

Step 2: Find the lab nearest you. We partner with Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics, two of the top U.S. lab companies, to offer more than 4,000 locations nationwide.

Step 3: Bring the CD4 blood test order to the lab and get tested.

Step 4: Get your results in your secure, confidential Personalabs account. Your testing report typically arrives within 2 to 10 business days. However, if you need a specific turnaround date, contact us and we will work with the lab on your behalf. If you want to discuss your results with an expert, schedule a convenient telehealth visit with a Personalabs board-certified doctor.

Shop our full range of health tests, including our infectious disease tests, today.