Here, we demonstrate the now cytometric concept of 'primary CD4 gating util
izing three different CD4 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) conjugated with five
different fluorochromes. CD4(+) lymphocytes were defined by an autogate in
a single histogram of CD4 fluorescence intensity (FI) (U-axis) vs. side li
ght scatter (x-axis). A wide range of absolute counts for > 600 individuals
. including HIV+ patients, were compared with those obtained by 'state-of-t
he-art' single-platform flow cytometers such as the volumetric Ortho Cytoro
nAbsolute and the Becton Dickinson FACSCalibur using TruCount beads, The co
rrelation between CD4 counts obtained with primary CD4 gating and the full
test panel on the Ortho Cytoron was excellent (R-2 = 0.999). Bland-Altman s
tatistics showed a mean difference of -2 cells/mm(3) [confidence interval (
CI) 95% = -3 to -1; limits of agreement -27 to +23]. In addition to absolut
e CD4 counts, CD4% values and CD4/CD8 ratios are also frequently requested.
To obtain these, lymphocytes need to be counted using scatter gates, and a
second tube stained with a CD8 mAb to count CD8(+ +) lymphocytes can be in
corporated. We conclude that primary CD4 gating on single-platform volumetr
ic flow cytometers is one of the most economical and flexible technologies
for routine cost-conscious service work, particularly during the follow-up
of patients undergoing anti-HIV therapy and/or vaccination in the developin
g world.