CD4:CD8 Ratio Profile
Use
The CD4:CD8 Ratio Profile is an important test for assessing immune function, particularly in patients with HIV-1 infection. HIV-1 infection leads to a decrease in CD4 T cells, an increase in CD8 T cells, and a reduction in the CD4:CD8 ratio. This test provides prognostic information and helps monitor disease progression and antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1 seropositive patients by enumerating CD4 T cells.
Special Instructions
It is essential to collect the specimen ensuring it arrives in the laboratory within 48 hours of collection to preserve cellular viability. Indicate the date and time of venipuncture on the tubes and the test request form. The tubes should be inverted 8 to 10 times immediately after collection.
Limitations
This test's accuracy and reliability depend on adhering to specimen collection and handling protocols. Specimens must arrive at the laboratory within 48 hours to preserve cell viability. Hemolyzed, clotted, contaminated, or improperly stored specimens will be rejected. Specimens refrigerated or frozen are also unsuitable for this assay, as they affect the immunophenotyping process. The test results should be interpreted in the context of clinical and other laboratory findings.
Methodology
Cell-based / Cytometry (Flow Cytometry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 65758-5
- 24467-3
- 8123-2
- 14135-8
- 8101-8
- 54218-3
- 6690-2
- 789-8
- 718-7
- 4544-3
- 787-2
- 785-6
- 786-4
- 788-0
- 777-3
- 770-8
- 736-9
- 5905-5
- 713-8
- 706-2
- 75652-8
- 751-8
- 731-0
- 742-7
- 711-2
- 704-7
- 71695-1
- 53115-2
- 58413-6
- 18314-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
Fill tube(s) to capacity.
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube and yellow-top (ACD-A) or (ACD-B) tube
Collection Instructions
Invert tube 8 to 10 times immediately after collection. To preserve cellular viability, collect specimen so it will arrive in the laboratory within 48 hours of collection. Indicate date and time of venipuncture on the tube(s) and on the test request form.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; specimen refrigerated or frozen; clotted specimen; contaminated specimen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Yellow-top (ACD-A) or (ACD-B) tube: 2 days; Lavender-top (EDTA) tube: 1 day |
| Refrigerated | Unstable |
| Frozen | Unstable |