Lymphocyte subsets
| Category | Immunology | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Test background |
Enumeration of peripheral blood T-cells (CD3, CD4, CD8), B-cells (CD19) and NK cells (CD56). Other lymphocyte surface markers can also be enumerated. HIV positive patients may have reduced T-helper (CD4) lymphocytes or a reduced T-helper: T-suppressor (CD8) cell ratio, usually in conjunction with an absolute lymphocytopenia. This test is now recommended as an early indicator of the development of AIDS in HIV positive subjects. It is not specific for HIV infection and other viral conditions, non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, SLE and sarcoidosis may also be associated with a low count. |
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| Clinical Indications |
Early indicator of the development of AIDS in HIV positive subjects. |
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| Reference range |
NB values for children vary according to age |
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| Sample & container required | EDTA (lavender top); Do not separate or refrigerate; Test within 24 hours; Please label 'risk specimen' if HIV positive | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sample volume | 3 mL | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Turnaround time | 3 days | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Notes | Please discuss with the Immunology laboratory on ext. 10130. |