Dear Mark, I have already asked a few questions earlier regarding CD4 absolute & CD4. Now as I had told you, my results have come now and the following are my previous and present results (Mind you! this is without the ARV) For 16/3/2001: CD4 (helper/inducer)= 39, Absolute CD4 = 92, WBC = 6000, Total Lymphs = 37 and V/Load = not taken. For 17/8/2001: CD4 (helper/inducer) = 38, Absolute CD4 = 547, WBC = 7200, Total lymphs = 20 and V/Load = 14841. 1.Why is this discrepancy taking place? 2.Is it necessary for me to start on with ART, though I haven't been attacked by any major OIs? And I'm clinically well without any symptoms except for some skin problems like folliculities and herpes simplex. 3.Which is the best time to start on with ART? *** Please explain me in detailed. Thanks.

Your total WBC is normal. The CD4 percentage did not change in the 5 months between testing. I cannot explain why the absolute CD4 count was so low on the first test. The difference in total WBC between the tests would not account for the CD4 count discrepancy. If I saw that percentage with that CD4 count, I would conclude that the absolute count was inaccurate. The current guidelines suggest starting treatment when the CD4 count is < 350 and the viral load is > 30-55,000/ml. Given your current numbers, I would recommend waiting and not starting now. MH