The status of the immune system in someone with HIV infection can be monitored by checking
A)total lymphocyte counts.
B)antibody levels.
C)therapeutic drug levels.
D)CD4 T-cell counts.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

CD4 T-cell counts are a more accurate indicator of the immune system's status in someone with HIV infection because HIV preferentially targets and destroys CD4 T-cells. Therefore, as the CD4 T-cell count decreases, the immune system becomes weaker, and the risk of opportunistic infections and other complications increases. Checking total lymphocyte counts or antibody levels may provide some information about the immune system's function, but it is not specific to HIV infection. Checking therapeutic drug levels is important to ensure that the patient is receiving adequate treatment, but it does not directly measure the status of the immune system.

The Status of the Immune System in Someone with HIV