Lab results about cd4 cd8; what do they mean?

T-cell subsets: Cd4 and cd8 are cell surface markers found on different subsets of t-cells. Cd4 and cd8 t-cells have different functions. Cd4 cells are often called "helper cells" because they help direct the immune response of other cells through the release of chemicals called cytokines. Cd8 cells are direct effector cells involved in things like tumor suppression and killing infected cells.

Low values?: Low CD4 and CD4 to cd8 ratio are used evaluate the presence of immunodeficiency i.e. The ability to fight infections and cancer. One may have acquired immunodeficiency as in hiv/aids or congenital immunodeficiency as in cvid, combined variable immunodeficiency.