Quick answer
The CD3 CD4 Cell Count Test costs ₹2,200 at Live Line Health Care. Counts CD3 and CD4 T cells, the immune cells HIV targets. No fasting is needed. It uses a blood sample and the report is usually ready within 24–48 hours. Book home sample collection or visit any of our 45 centres.
Also known as: CD4 Count, CD4 Cell Count, CD3 CD4 Count, T Cell Count, CD4 Absolute Count, CD4 Percentage, T Helper Cell Count, CD4 Lymphocyte Count
What is the CD4 Count Test?
The CD3 CD4 Cell Count test measures two groups of white blood cells called T lymphocytes. CD3 is a marker found on all T cells, and CD4 marks the helper T cells that coordinate much of the immune response. HIV infects and gradually destroys CD4 cells, so their number gives a clear picture of how much the immune system has been affected. The count is done by flow cytometry, a method that tags cells with fluorescent markers and counts them one by one, and it is reported both as an absolute number per microlitre and as a percentage.
This test is not a test for HIV. People living with HIV use it to see how strong their immunity is at diagnosis and over time, and doctors use it to decide on medicines that prevent certain infections. On effective treatment the CD4 count usually climbs back up, though viral load is the main test for checking whether HIV medicines are working. Low counts can also occur with steroids, some other infections and certain blood disorders. Your result is treated with complete confidentiality, and free CD4 testing is also available at government ART centres.
What it measures: The number and percentage of CD3 T cells and CD4 helper T cells in the blood.
Parameters included (4)
- CD3 T Cells (Absolute Count)
- CD3 T Cells (%)
- CD4 T Cells (Absolute Count)
- CD4 T Cells (%)
Why is this test done?
- A baseline count soon after an HIV diagnosis
- Regular follow-up of immunity in people living with HIV, as advised
- Deciding whether medicines to prevent infections such as PCP are needed
- Checking immune recovery after starting antiretroviral therapy
- Investigating unexplained frequent or unusual infections, on a specialist’s advice
When should you get tested?
- Repeated or severe infections
- Thrush in the mouth or throat
- Long-lasting fever, diarrhoea or night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- A known HIV diagnosis needing routine monitoring
How to prepare for the CD4 Count Test
- 1You can eat before this test, as fasting is not needed.
- 2CD4 counts vary through the day, so try to give samples at about the same time for each follow-up.
- 3Tell your doctor about any recent illness, vaccination, surgery or steroid medicine, since these can lower the count for a while. Keep taking all your medicines as prescribed.
- 4Your result is shared only with you or someone you authorise.
CD4 Count Test normal range
| Parameter | Typical reference range |
|---|---|
| CD4 absolute count | About 500–1,500 cells/µL in healthy adults |
| CD4 percentage | About 30–60% of lymphocytes |
| Lowered immunity | CD4 below 350 cells/µL |
| Severely lowered immunity | CD4 below 200 cells/µL, when the risk of serious infections rises |
Typical adult values. Reference ranges vary by lab, and children have higher normal counts, which are often judged by percentage. Your report’s range takes precedence. Ranges are typical adult values and vary between labs, age and sex. Always use the range printed on your report and discuss results with your doctor.
Understanding your results
- The trend over time tells more than one result, so compare counts done in the same way.
- A count below 200 cells/µL means a higher risk of infections such as PCP pneumonia and TB, and your doctor may add preventive medicine.
- A rising count on treatment is a good sign. Your doctor will still use viral load to check how well HIV medicines are working.
- A short-term illness can lower the count, so one low result is often rechecked before decisions are made.
- Never stop or change HIV medicines on the basis of a CD4 result. Discuss every report with your treating doctor or ART centre.
CD4 Count Test – FAQs
What is the price of the CD4 Count Test?
The CD3 CD4 Cell Count Test costs ₹2,200 at Live Line Health Care, at all 45 centres and for home sample collection.
What is a normal CD4 count?
In healthy adults it is usually about 500 to 1,500 cells per microlitre, though labs use slightly different ranges. Children have higher counts. What matters most for people living with HIV is the trend over time and how it responds to treatment.
Is the CD4 count a test for HIV?
No. CD4 measures immune cells, and a low count has many possible causes. HIV is diagnosed with specific antibody and antigen tests. The CD4 count is used after diagnosis to understand immune health and guide care.
What does a CD4 count below 200 mean?
It means the immune system is seriously weakened and certain infections become more likely. Doctors usually start or continue antiretroviral therapy and may add medicines to prevent infections. With treatment, many people see their count recover over months to years.
What is the difference between CD4 count and viral load?
CD4 count shows how strong your immune system is. Viral load measures the amount of HIV in your blood and is the main test to check that treatment is working. Doctors use both, and each answers a different question.
How often should the CD4 count be checked?
This depends on your health and treatment. It is usually checked at diagnosis and then at intervals your doctor sets. Once viral load stays suppressed and CD4 is healthy, testing may become less frequent. Follow your doctor’s or ART centre’s advice.
Is my CD4 test result kept private?
Yes. Your report is confidential and is shared only with you or a person you name. Our staff treat every patient with respect and without judgement. You can also ask for your result to be discussed privately.
Where can I get the CD4 Count Test done?
At any of our 45 Live Line Health Care centres in 40 cities across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, including Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Warangal, Kakinada and Nellore, or book home sample collection.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor to interpret your results and before starting or changing any treatment.