i wasn't sure where to ask this and because i like your responses, i'll give it to you. my viral load has been undetectable for over 2 years. my t-cells have gone from 8 to 230, but since last november they have been stuck at 230. is there something i should try in order to increase them? my dr. says it happens, i trust him, but wanted a second opinion.

I think I agree with your doctor. Generally, the T cell response is most rapid in the first 6-12 months and then the rate of improvement slows down. Sometimes, the T cell response to treatment seems to plateau. It may start up again after a while; rarely, it just stays stalled.

You are in a good range at 230, and would be likely to be ok even if it never climbs any higher. This is a setting where IL-2 can be considered, but the side effects and expense are considerable, and there are not yet convincing data that the improved numbers will translate into better outcomes. However, it is still an open question. I have used IL-2 in clinical trials, and have been impressed by the toxicity, although people do well. My bias is it still belongs in clinical trials, not everyday use.

Hope that helps.

ATP