There is some evidence that having active TB leads to a fall in CD4 cell count and a rise in viral load. This means the effect of HIV may be worse unless anti-HIV drugs are given and the TB is treated.

However, people with HIV who have had TB and been successfully treated are just as likely to benefit from HIV treatment, experiencing the same fall in viral load and increase in CD4 cell count, as HIV-positive people who have never had the disease, and living just as long.

CD4 cell count and viral load are the key indicators of the effect HIV is having on the immune system and should be monitored regularly.  If you’re not sure what they are or what they mean, NAM produces a booklet called Viral load & CD4 which should answer your questions.  Contact us for a free copy – contact details are at the end of this booklet.