CD3 Absolute Count Test

CD3, CD4, and CD8 all these tests are performed on a sample of blood to measure the level of CD3, CD4, and CD8 in the blood. The test is performed to confirm the T cell lymphoma and also during the treatment and after the treatment of the T cell lymphoma. Lymphoma is caused by lymphocytes a specific type of WBC. Lymphocytes can be either T cell or B cells. In the mature T cell (CD3) population the T cells can be either helper T cells (CD4) or suppressor T cells (CD8). Therefore in the test for lymphocyte the CD4 cells plus the CD8 cells should be equal to CD3. This way you can calculate the CD3 absolute count. The test is used to evaluate the immune system of a person diagnosed with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.

No special information is required while going for the test. You need to inform the doctor about all the medicines that you take so that the doctor can advise against it till the test if any of the medicines can alter the results of the test.

In general, a normal CD4 count means that the person's immune system is not yet affected by HIV infection. A low CD4 count indicates that the person's immune system has been affected by HIV and/or the disease is progressing. However, any single CD4 test result may differ from the last one even though the person's health status has not changed. WBC count= 2.5 x 103/mcL (2500 cells/mcL), % Lymphs= 30%

A band is wrapped around the arm, preferably near the elbow pit such that vein is clearly seen. The area is cleaned with 70% alcohol The needle is inserted into the visible vein causing a small prick and the required amount of blood sample is collected The collected blood is transferred into the blood container from the nozzle and the syringe is hygienically disposed immediately