T-cell count

A blood sample is needed .

No special preparation is necessary.

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or a slight bruise. This soon goes away.

T cells are a type of lymphocyte. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell. They make up part of the immune system. T cells help the body fight diseases or harmful substances, such as bacteria or viruses. Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs of a weak immune system ( immunodeficiency…

Normal results vary depending on the type of T-cell tested. In adults, a normal CD4 cell count ranges from 500 to 1,500 cells/mm 3 (0.50 to 1.50 cells/10 9 /L). Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your provider…

Higher than normal T-cell levels may be due to: Cancer, such as acute lymphocytic leukemia or multiple myeloma Infections, such as hepatitis or mononucleosis Lower than normal T-cell levels may be due to: Acute viral infections Aging Cancer Immune system diseases, such as HIV/AIDS Radiation therapy Steroid treatment

There is very little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one person to another and from one side of the body to the other. Taking blood from some people may be more difficult than from others. Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:…

Berliner N. Leukocytosis and leukopenia. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine . 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 153. Holland SM, Gallin JI. Evaluation of the patient with suspected immunodeficiency. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and…