QUESTION
Is it normal for some people to have T-cell counts that are 300 or so for most of their lives? This is a question about people who do not test HIV+.

ANSWER
The normal range of CD4 T-cells is usually between 400 and 1600. That is where 95% of the uninfected population will fit in. That means that rarely will people be HIV uninfected and have CD4 T-cells below or above this. So while it can be normal, it is uncommon. The risk is that persons with CD4 T- cells below 200, regardless of cause, are at increased risk for certain infections and cancers. CD4 T-cells are also a reflection of the total lymphocyte count in your body which can be temporarily decreased when you have common colds, flus, etc.

To your health,
Dr. K