Decrease in CD4 lymphocyte counts with rest; implications for the monitoring of HIV infection

Measurement of the CD4 lymphocyte count is widely used as a prognostic marker and guide for the institution of antiretroviral therapy in patients infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). CD4 counts are known to fluctuate with strenuous physical activity and diurnal variation but there is no information on the effects of rest or normal daily activity. We investigated the effects of rest on the absolute CD4 lymphocyte count in 20 healthy laboratory workers. Blood samples were obtained in 20 subjects upon arrival in the laboratory (CD4 0), following 30 and 60 min rest (CD4 30 and CD4 60 respectively) and 8 h into a normal working day (CD4 8). A significant decrease in the CD4 lymphocyte count was observed following 60 min rest; mean CD4 count at 0 min 1060 x 10(6)/L, mean CD4 count at 60 min 660 x 10(6)/L (P = 0.0017). These results demonstrate a significant effect of rest on CD4 lymphocyte counts in healthy volunteers. This biological variation may be important in HIV-infected patients and needs to be addressed by further studies.