Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2004. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date. Was infected in 2002 - initial CD4[T-cell count] was 520 and VL[viral load] 7800 - since
then with my every 3 month testing my VL has fluctuated from 7800
- 16000 (being the highest), after that 16000 it went back to 7900.
My CD4 went from an initial 520 to 761 and, just last visit, back to
564. I am aware of fluctuation but how do these numbers appear
to you?
Much thanks.
Your viral load numbers are fairly low for an untreated patient, which is a good thing.
It is common to have the kind of changes you have shown in T cells. As you are aware, they do tend to fluctuate, especially at higher numbers like yours. It's a bit like the tides.
I don't know how soon after infection your first t cell count was obtained, but it is not uncommon, for many reasons, to show an increase after an early , low count. T cell counts can actually be quite low during acute infection, and then rise, without treatment, as the immune system goes to work. I'm a bit limited by not knowing the dates of these T cell measurements, but nothing looks too surprising in what you shared with me.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, Elton John AIDS Foundation, John M. Lloyd Foundation, Roche and Trimeris, the National Library of Medicine, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2004. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2004. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content.