Is CD4s possible to make "big" jumps???

Hi I'm a 27 years old female. I just found out about my diagnosed (HIV) in "April" 08' (So I am new) and my cd4 was 317 and vl was 2,000. (Three months later)......Now I took the test on the 9th of this month and my cd4 is 423 (don't know my vl) but I took the same test in a "another" clinic on the 11th (couple days later) and the cd4 is 288 and my vl is 3,000. That's a big difference in those two days of my CD4s. I know cd4s change up and down everyday but I didn't know they change in a "big" jump! Is that possible? If not then who do I believe?

Thanks!

CD4 counts can and do vary widely.

There is usually about a 95% confidence range with CD4 counts meaning that a count of 200 can actually be anywhere from 118-337 cells/mm3.

Factors that can influence CD4 counts:
-analytical variation (lab variability)
-seasonal changes
-diurnal (daily) changes (which is why you should have your CD4 count done at the same time of day every time you have it checked)
-having another illness
-the use of corticosteroids (especially if given in large doses)

Acute changes are probably due to a redistribution of white blood cells between the peripheral circulation and the marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes.

I would ask your doctor about your "CD4 cell percentage" which is sometimes used in preference to the absolute number (CD4 count) because the variation is reduced to a single measurement. While people's CD4 counts may jump around a bit, the actual percentage only shows major changes, which can help to put people's minds at ease.

Take care,