Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a major Public Health burden to the world despite all efforts to eradicate
the menace. HIV infection is characterized by profound CD4 T cell destruction, compromised mucosal barrier
function and chronic immune activation. In addition, this infection is associated with a marked activation and
expansion of HIV-specific and bystander CD8 T cells. The impairment in CD4 T cell regeneration and the persistent
elevation of CD8 T cell counts are considered to be a consequence of viral persistence and multiple inflammatory
factors including gut microbial translocation, leading to major T cell dysfunction. The ratio of CD4/CD8 is very
important in the improvement of the lives of the HIV positive patients and should be carefully monitored and the
balance maintained.