T-Lymphocyte Helper/Suppressor Profile
Also known as: Helper:Suppressor Ratio, T4:T8 Analysis
Use
This test enumerates CD4 and CD8 T-cells which are crucial for monitoring immune function in HIV-1 seropositive patients. The progression of HIV-1 infection typically results in a decrease in CD4 T cells, an increase in CD8 T cells, and a decrease in the CD4:CD8 ratio, indicative of progressive destruction of immune function. These measurements are used for prognostic purposes, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating the effectiveness of retroviral therapy.
Special Instructions
To preserve cellular viability, specimens should arrive at the laboratory within 48 hours of collection. Indicate the date and time of venipuncture on the tubes and test request form.
Limitations
The accurate enumeration of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells depends on using appropriate controls and calibration in flow cytometry. Specimens must be processed within the specified time frame (48 hours) to ensure accurate results. Hemolysis, clotted or contaminated specimens, and specimens that are refrigerated or frozen are causes for rejection. Measurement variability may be introduced if processing steps are not adhered to stringently.
Methodology
Cell-based / Cytometry (Flow Cytometry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 65759-3
- 8122-4
- 24467-3
- 14135-8
- 8124-0
- 8123-2
- 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.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature. Do not freeze or refrigerate.
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 |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant