This reflects the high burden of HIV infection in the South African public sector.15 The median CD4 cell count at admission was 47 cells/mm3 (1 cells/mm3 – 1069 cells/mm3) reflecting not only delayed health-seeking behaviour but also the higher morbidity in those with advanced stages of HIV infection and CD4 cell counts < 200 cells/mm.3,19 Such patients with lower CD4 cell counts are more likely to have clinically advanced disease and a lower anticipated survival rate. The gene discussed is CD4; the disease is HIV infectious disease.