Lymphocyte immunophenotyping at the Centers for Disease Control: the program and special studies

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Lymphocyte immunophenotyping has been a key technology at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) since 1981.
• Continuous technological advancements are crucial for maintaining high standards in immunophenotyping.
• The CDC has analyzed approximately 8300 specimens related to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in the past seven years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the role of lymphocyte subsets in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
• To identify the most sensitive lymphocyte marker for predicting HIV infection outcomes.
• To highlight the importance of advanced immunophenotyping in managing HIV/AIDS.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing advanced lymphocyte immunophenotyping techniques.
• Analyzing a large cohort of approximately 8300 specimens from patients and at-risk individuals.
• Correlating changes in lymphocyte subsets with HIV infection status and progression.

Main Results:

• Several lymphocyte subsets show alterations (increases or decreases) in HIV infection.
• CD4 lymphocyte determination emerged as the most sensitive marker.
• CD4 counts effectively predict the clinical outcome of human immunodeficiency virus infection.

Conclusions:

• CD4 lymphocyte count is a critical and highly sensitive biomarker for predicting outcomes in HIV infection.
• Ongoing advancements in immunophenotyping technology enhance diagnostic capabilities for HIV/AIDS.
• Lymphocyte immunophenotyping remains a vital tool in HIV/AIDS research and patient management at the CDC.