HIV Opportunistic Infection Risk (CD4-Based)
Predicts risk of specific opportunistic infections by CD4 count threshold. Guides prophylaxis and diagnostic priorities in HIV-positive patients.
Score interpretation
CD4 above 500 cells/mm³.
→ Standard HIV monitoring; routine vaccinations (avoid live if CD4 <200); no specific OI prophylaxis needed; 6-monthly HIV clinic review
CD4 200–500 cells/mm³.
→ Annual OI screen; pneumococcal vaccine; TB screen (IGRA); routine dental; STI screening; ensure ART compliance; 3-monthly monitoring if declining
CD4 below 200 cells/mm³ — whether or not on ART.
→ PCP prophylaxis (adults): co-trimoxazole 960mg daily (dapsone if intolerant); CD4 <100: add toxoplasma prophylaxis if toxoplasma IgG-positive (co-trimoxazole covers both); CD4 <50: MAC prophylaxis (adults: azithromycin 1.2g weekly) only if ART is not started immediately; CMV and cryptococcal antigen screening; urgent ART if not started; ID specialist. Children: use a children's formulary.
Interpretation bands for the HIV OI Risk by CD4. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Palivizumab · RSV Prophylaxis — Monthly Monoclonal Antibody (High-Risk Infants)
- Emollient bath and shower products, paraffin-containing · Paraffin-based bath/shower emollient
- Emollient creams and ointments, hydrogenated castor oil-containing · Hydrogenated castor oil-based emollient
- Dimeticone · Topical pediculicide (silicone-based)
- Anti-D (Rh₀) Immunoglobulin · Immunoglobulin (Rh Prophylaxis)
- Cefuroxime · Second-Generation Cephalosporin — Respiratory / Surgical Prophylaxis
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.