CD4 + T Cell and Total Lymphocyte Counts among Health Workers in Radiology Department of Some Hospitals Within Sokoto Metropolis

Abstract

Exposure to ionizing radiation has lethal effects on helper T cells (CD4 + T cell), total lymphocyte count (TLC) and other immune cells. Most of the studies performed focused surprisingly not among Radiology workers. Indeed, evaluation of their immune status can
provide useful information on the status and potential effect that the exposure can cause. Knowledge of the risks and effective strategies of protection are of paramount importance for them. The study aims at estimating the CD4 + T cells, Total lymphocyte counts and other immune cells among health workers in Radiology Department of some Hospitals within Sokoto metropolis. The CD4 + T cell was measured using Flow cytometer and the other immune cells using haematological analyzer. The result shows that there is decrease in the CD4 + T cell count of the Health workers as compare to the Healthy controls group. There is significant difference on CD4+ T cell count, TLC and CD4 + /TLC ratio between the Health workers and Control group (p<0.05). There is significant difference on monocytes and neutrophils counts between the Health workers and control (p<0.05). The decreased number of circulating CD4 + T cell and granulocytes by radiations can lead to infections and long-term work on radiations can induce immune suppression. Routine checkup and proper use of effective protective equipment is recommended.