The status of the immune system in someone with HIV infection can be monitored by checking

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Monitoring CD4 T-cell counts is the standard method for assessing the immune status of someone with HIV infection. CD4 T-cells are key immune cells that are targeted and destroyed by the virus, leading to a decline in their numbers over time. Therefore, checking CD4 T-cell counts can help determine the stage of HIV disease, guide treatment decisions, and assess the immune response to antiretroviral therapy. Total lymphocyte counts and antibody levels may also be informative, but they are not as specific and sensitive as CD4 T-cell counts for monitoring HIV infection. Therapeutic drug levels are important for evaluating the effectiveness and toxicity of antiretroviral medications but do not directly reflect immune function.

The Status of the Immune System in Someone with HIV