What is the primary concern if a patient’s CD4+ T cell count is low (< 200 cells/µL)? *
The patient’s physical defense barriers become immunocompromised
HIV can no longer be treated at this stage
The patient is at a greater risk for secondary infections
The patient won’t be able to generate new neutrophils which help protect against pathogens
help plz
The primary concern if a patient's CD4+ T cell count is low (< 200 cells/µL) is that the patient is at a greater risk for secondary infections. To understand why this is the case, we need to understand what CD4+ T cells do in the immune system.
CD4+ T cells are a type of white blood cell that play a critical role in the immune response. They are responsible for coordinating the immune system's response to infections. When the CD4+ T cell count is low, the immune system becomes compromised, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections.
A CD4+ T cell count below 200 cells/µL is a significant concern because it indicates severe immune system suppression. At this stage, the patient's physical defense barriers become immunocompromised, which means they are less able to protect themselves from infectious agents. This puts them at a much higher risk for developing secondary infections, such as opportunistic infections, which are infections that take advantage of a weakened immune system.
It is important for healthcare providers to closely monitor patients with a low CD4+ T cell count and take proactive measures to prevent and treat any secondary infections that may arise. Treating the underlying condition causing the low CD4+ T cell count, such as HIV, is also crucial to prevent further immune system damage and restore immune function.
Therefore, the correct answer is: The patient is at a greater risk for secondary infections.