HIV-1 RNA
Last updated: Thursday, 25, October, 2007
| Item | Process |
|---|---|
| Specimen | 10 mL blood in plain tube (for serum) or lithium heparin tube (for lymphocytes). |
| Method | HIV-1 RNA is amplified and then measured by immunoassay. The result is derived by comparison to standard curves and expressed as viral equivalents (copies)/mL. |
| Reference Interval | Method dependent. |
| Application | Monitoring the course of HIV infection, incl prognosis and response to treatment. CD4 counts are also used to monitor HIV infection; see Lymphocyte immunophenotyping. In neonates, to assess whether HIV antibody is maternally derived or indicates infection. |
| Interpretation | The test measures viral load and provides a predictor of disease course and prognosis, independent of CD4 counts. High viral load is associated with a poor prognosis if detected early in the course of the disease. Decreased viral load in response to treatment is associated with an improved long term outcome. |
| Reference | Holodniy M. Clin Lab Med 1994; 14: 335-349. |