How is the absolute CD4 cell count calculated using the given data?

Calculating the absolute CD4 cell count is a crucial aspect of immunology, especially in monitoring immunocompromised patients. The correct method to find the absolute CD4 cell count involves using the total white blood cell (WBC) count, the percentage of lymphocytes, and the percentage of CD4 cells.

To calculate the absolute CD4 count, the total WBC count must first be used to determine the total number of lymphocytes in the blood. This is done by multiplying the WBC count by the percentage of lymphocytes. This calculation gives the total number of lymphocyte cells.

After finding the total lymphocyte count, the next step is to find the CD4 count by multiplying this lymphocyte total by the percentage of CD4 cells. This yields the absolute number of CD4 T cells in the blood.

The process can be summarized in a formula:

Absolute CD4 cell count = (WBC count) x (percentage of lymphocytes) x (percentage of CD4 cells).

This entire process showcases why the first choice accurately describes the correct calculation method for determining the absolute CD4 cell count, as it captures the necessary steps to arrive at the proper figure.