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CD20 Jun 22, 2008 I am about to have monotherapy for HIV related Castlemans and have been told this will affect my CD20. Firstly what is that and is it important and what effect will it have on my CD4 count if any which I thought was the important number. My current CD4 is 390 25% VL<40. tHANKS |
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| Response from Dr. Young
 Thanks for your post. Castleman's disease is thought to be caused by an unusual overgrowth of certain types of B (not T) cells, that harbor the CD20 surface marker. B cells are the other arm of the immune system-- the part responsible for making antibodies. Treatments of Castleman's are aimed at lowering CD20 levels. Since B and T cells represent different (but important) parts of the immune system, there should be no direct effect on CD4s. Nevertheless, since lowering B cell levels could lower your overall immune function, it will be important to keep an eye on your HIV- and overall health during treatment. Best of health, BY | ||||||||
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