CD4/CD8 Ratio
The CD4 to CD8 ratio T-cell test compares the number of helper T cells to the number of cytotoxic T cells. Helper T cells are also called CD4+ cells, and rather than killing cells directly they send signals that tell other cells in the immune system how to coordinate an attack against invaders. Cytotoxic T cells are also called CD8+ cells, and they kill cells infected with viruses and bacteria as well as destroying tumour cells.
Why it matters: A provider may order a T cell count, also called a CD4 count, if they suspect there is an issue with the immune system. Or they may order a CD4 to CD8 ratio T-cell test, to see how many helper T cells there are in relation to cytotoxic T cells.
Source · Cleveland Clinic — what it is, why it matters
What is CD4/CD8 Ratio?
The CD4 to CD8 ratio T-cell test compares the number of helper T cells to the number of cytotoxic T cells. Helper T cells are also called CD4+ cells, and rather than killing cells directly they send signals that tell other cells in the immune system how to coordinate an attack against invaders. Cytotoxic T cells are also called CD8+ cells, and they kill cells infected with viruses and bacteria as well as destroying tumour cells.
What might a high or low CD4/CD8 Ratio mean?
A provider may order a T cell count, also called a CD4 count, if they suspect there is an issue with the immune system. Or they may order a CD4 to CD8 ratio T-cell test, to see how many helper T cells there are in relation to cytotoxic T cells.
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