CD4 (T-cells)
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CD4 cells, sometimes called T-cells, are white blood cells which help fight infections.
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A person who is not HIV positive may have a CD4 count anywhere between 500 and 1,200.
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HIV can infect CD4 cells and use them to produce more HIV.
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Most people with HIV find that their CD4 count usually declines over a number of years.
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If your CD4 count drops below 350, or starts falling rapidly, your doctor should talk to you about whether you need to start anti-HIV medication.
Viral Load
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A Viral Load is a description of the amount of HIV in your blood.
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Viral load measurements can go up and down from one blood test to the next.
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Your viral load should ideally only be tested when you are well. Having an infection or recent vaccination could cause your viral load to temporarily increase.
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If your viral load results over a period have been consistently increasing, along with other indicators such as your CD4 count decreasing, starting treatment may begin in consultation with your doctor.