Normal T Cell Levels
Normal T-cell levels vary according to the type of T cell. There are three different kinds: helper, cytotoxic and regulatory. T cells are a type of white blood cell called a lymphocyte. Lymphocytes comprise 10 to 45 percent of our white blood cells.
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Helper
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Normal levels of helper T cells (also called CD4 T cells) are 500 to 1500 milliunits per milliliter. Helper cells are first responders. They recognize when infection is present and tell fighter cells.
Cytotoxic
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Normal levels of cytotoxic cells measure 300 to 800 milliunits per milliliter. Cytotoxic, or CD8 T cells, are chiefly responsible for killing viruses.
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Regulatory
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These specialized lymphocytes tell the immune system when to stop fighting. They are a subset of CD4 T cells, according to the Merck Manual.
High Levels
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When blood tests show T-cell levels are elevated, it can indicate one of many diseases. High T-cell levels may be a sign of acute lymphocytic leukemia, mononucleosis or multiple myeloma, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Low Levels
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If T cells have dropped below the normal range, it may indicate the presence of Hodgkin's Disease, an acute viral infection or AIDS. When diagnosing AIDS, particular attention is paid to the amount of helper T cells.
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