CD4+ Technology procurement scheme

Since 2004, WHO has procured equipment and reagents for CD4+ T-cell enumeration, used to stage HIV disease, decide when to start treatment and monitor the response to anti-retroviral therapy.

These methods can include:

• Dedicated CD4+ enumeration instruments which have a low to medium throughput suitable in district and regional laboratories.
• Single and double platform classic flow cytometers which have a high throughput to be used in central laboratories.

Existing flow cytometers can be used where possible with the necessary additional reagents or a dedicated CD4+/CD8 T-cell enumerating flow cytometer.

Starter kits

Available to laboratories wishing to set up for first time use of CD4+ technology.
May include equipment, reagents, controls, installation and training and a maintenance contract.

Reagent kits

Available to laboratories with existing equipment.
Consists of reagents and controls.

The availability of adequate expertise, laboratory infrastructure and technical support from the CD+ technology manufacturer within the WHO member states is paramount, as is the facility for on-going training of technicians and on-site maintenance of equipment.

Technical assistance and guidance are available in order to assist WHO member states with their choice of technology.