Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Reference Guide
  /  
% CD8 T Cells
Sign up free to test for 
% CD8 T Cells
.
One login for 30+ lab companies.

% Cytotoxic (CD8) T Cells

What's 
% CD8 T Cells
?
Cytotoxic (CD8) T Cells, often simply referred to as CD8 T Cells, are a type of white blood cell that play a vital role in your immune system. They are like the body's security guards, always on the lookout for harmful invaders like viruses or bacteria. Once they spot an invader, they spring into action, destroying the infected cells to keep you healthy. CD8 T Cells are also unique because they have a 'memory'. This means that if the same invader tries to attack again in the future, these cells remember it and can respond more quickly and effectively. CD8 T Cells are a crucial part of your body's defense system, helping to protect you from illness and disease.
If Your Levels Are High
High levels of the % Cytotoxic (CD8) T Cells biomarker could suggest that your body is actively fighting off an infection or disease. CD8 T cells are like the soldiers of your immune system, so a higher percentage could mean they're in battle mode. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a viral or bacterial infection. Certain medications, like immunosuppressants or corticosteroids, can also affect the percentage of these cells. Additionally, conditions like HIV/AIDS or autoimmune diseases can cause an increase in CD8 T cells as your body tries to combat these conditions. It's important to note that while a higher percentage of these cells means your body is working hard to protect itself, it could also indicate a serious health issue that needs attention.
Symptoms of High Levels
Symptoms of high levels of % Cytotoxic (CD8) T Cells could include fatigue, fever, unexplained weight loss, or frequent infections. However, it's also possible to have high levels of these cells without experiencing any noticeable symptoms.
If Your Levels are Low
A low percentage of Cytotoxic (CD8) T Cells in your body could suggest that your immune system isn't as strong as it should be, making it harder for your body to fight off infections and diseases. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a chronic illness, a genetic disorder that affects the immune system, or even stress. Certain medications, like corticosteroids or chemotherapy drugs, can also lower the count of these cells. Additionally, conditions like HIV/AIDS specifically target these cells, reducing their numbers. In essence, a low count might mean your body's defense system isn't fully equipped to protect you from health threats.
Symptoms of Low Levels
Symptoms of low levels of % Cytotoxic (CD8) T Cells could include frequent infections, prolonged recovery from illnesses, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. However, it's important to note that these symptoms can be associated with many different health conditions, and not just a low CD8 T cell count.

Hey practitioners! 👋 Join Dr. Chris Magryta and Dr. Erik Lundquist for a comprehensive 6-week course on evaluating functional medicine labs from two perspectives: adult and pediatric. In this course, you’ll explore the convergence of lab results across different diseases and age groups, understanding how human lab values vary on a continuum influenced by age, genetics, and time. Register Here! Register here.

Register Here

Test for

% Cytotoxic (CD8) T Cells

Order, track, and receive results from 30+ labs in one place.