A STUDY ON TOTAL LYMPHOCYTE COUNT AND CD4 COUNT IN HIV AFFECTED PATIENTS

Abstract

Purpose: The study aimed to assess the total lymphocyte count and CD4 count in HIV affected patients. Methodology: The approach we used in this study was to gather and analyze a wide range of research articles. Findings: Worldwide estimates of people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus was approximately 32 million in 2007 with thousands of people getting infected every day. Most people living with HIV are from developing countries with less than 5% receiving antiretroviral therapy. In 2009, an estimated 2.6 million people became infected out of which approximately 1.8 million were from sub-Saharan Africa. The initiation of antiretroviral therapy is based on CD4 counts of less than 350 cells/mm3 according to the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centre for Disease Control (CDC). The determination of CD4 count however in resource-limited localities is difficult. A total lymphocyte count (TLC) of <1200 cells/mm3 has been recommended in addition to WHO staging (stage II) of the disease, for the initiation of antiretroviral therapy in such localities. Unique contribution  to  theory,  practice  and  policy: The use of absolute lymphocyte count as a marker for HIV progression has been argued in many quarters over the years. Studies have suggested that when the absolute lymphocyte count is used in conjunction with blood hemoglobin, it gives a more sensitive marker for HIV progression with other studies discrediting the use of TLC in such settings.