CD8 Count

White blood cells are the determinants of immune system strength in the human body. CD4 and CD8 are two kinds of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cells (WBCs) which regulate immunity by controlling the spread of any infection. CD8 are the cytotoxic T-lymphocytes that are responsible for combatting alien cells such as cancer, viral infections, etc.

CD8 lymphocytes also control the spread of primary and secondary infections. During the first occurrence, it effectively restricts the spread of the infection. As soon as the infection clears, the T-cells die, but some remain in the body as memory cells for preventing future or secondary infections.

There are two kinds of CD8 T lymphocytes which control the bodily response for immunity against diseases. CD8 T lymphocytes kill infections by attacking virus-infected cells and producing antivirus cytokines. The cytokines are the signal protein in the body. When released, it activates the immune system for mediating and regulating through production as well as the growth of different blood cells.

On the other hand, CD8-positive suppressor T-cells restrain the hyperactivity of the immune system. Due to the deficiency of this type of T-cells, the body becomes more prone to developing autoimmune diseases.

Some of the most common illnesses due to cytotoxic T-lymphocytes imbalance include:

• Multiple sclerosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Sjögren's syndrome
• Dermatomyositis
• Systemic sclerosis
• Primary biliary cirrhosis
• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn's disease
• Psoriasis
• Type 1 diabetes mellitus
• Pernicious anemia

Other than causing autoimmune diseases, CD8 cytotoxic T-lymphocytes vary, expand and elevate during the early days of HIV infections.

Both the rise and fall in the CD8 T-cells levels are an indicator of underlying infection and disease. To capture the illness progression on time and facilitate optimum treatment, medical professionals suggest the Cd8 Count test.

The diagnosis consists of: 

• Analysis of Cd8 lymphocyte count absolute, which includes both the suppressor and killer T-cells, for finalizing the treatment type.
• Cd8 lymphocyte count percentage report observes the proportion of CD4 to CD8 to understand the immune system’s current functionality.

The normal range for the CD8 count test is 150 to 1000. It provides a general analysis of the immune response of the body. At the same time, the Cd8 lymphocyte count percentage provides insight into the relative growth of the T-cells, which usually occurs in HIV patients.

In order to provide the most accurate treatment as per the immune system’s functionality, the specialist recommends a comprehensive Cd8 Count test. Upon request, a lab technician will collect the patient's blood using a clean surgical needle. After drawing it out, the specimen is safely stored in a vial for Cd8 count analysis.

Apollo 24|7 offers an experienced team of credible technicians to collect and diagnose the CD8 levels.

The blood sample collection usually has no side effects. However, you may experience:

• Slight bleeding 
• Mild bruising at the site of needle insertion
• Minor rashes
• Feeling dizzy or nausea (Due to the anxiety induced by the fear of needles)
• Spot soreness or redness

The symptoms disappear within 1-3 days. However, if the side effects prolong, it’s best to consult a doctor at the earliest.