Chap 14, Lymphatic and Immune Systems, Laboratory Tests and Clinical Procedures

Question 1

CD4+ cell count

Answer 1

Measures the number of CD4+ T cells (helper T cells) in the bloodstream of patients with AIDS.

A normal count usually is between 500 and 1500 CD4+ cells per mm3. If the CD4+ count falls below 250 to 200, it is recommended to start treatment with anti-HIV drugs.

Question 2

ELISA

Answer 2

Screening test to detect anti-HIV antibodies in the bloodstream. This is a screening test for AIDS.

Question 3

immunoelectrophoresis

Answer 3

Test that separates immunoglobulins (IgM, IgA, IgG, IgE, IgD).

This procedure detects the presence of abnormal levels of antibodies in patients with conditions such as multiple myeloma and Waldenstrom macroglobulinenia.

Question 4

viral load test

Answer 4

Measures the amount of HIV in the blood stream.

Question 5

computed tomography (CT) scan

Answer 5

X-ray imaging produces cross-sectional and other views of anatomic structures.

These x-ray views show abnormalities of lymphoid organs, such as lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus gland.