HIV 1 RNA Quantitative Viral Load (PCR)
HIV 1 RNA Quantitative Viral Load (PCR)
HIV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that attacks and destroys immune cells which keep your body healthy. Your body will struggle to fight infections and other disorders if many of your immune cells are damaged. HIV infection can sometimes lead to fatal acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
The HIV 1 RNA quantitative viral load test involves examining your blood sample to measure the amount or quantity of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) present in it. The HIV 1 RNA quantitative viral load test is performed in conjunction with the clinical presentation of HIV signs and symptoms, as well as during antiretroviral therapy.
The test is also known as HIV Type 1 p24 Antigen Replacement Assay; HIV Viral Load, Ultrasensitive; Viral Load, HIV Type 1 RNA, Ultrasensitive; HIV Viral Load; Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 RNA by PCR; Viral Load, HIV Type 1 RNA; QHIV; UHIV; HIV-1 QUANTITATIVE RNA ASSAY; HIV-1 ULTRA-QUANT RNA ASSAY; PHIV; HIV-1 Proviral DNA
What is the HIV-1 RNA quantitative viral load test used for?
The HIV-1 RNA quantitative viral load test is recommended for the following reasons:
· To know the baseline viral load in an individual before starting the treatment (antiretroviral therapy)
· To understand and detect the progression of HIV-1 infection in an individual
· To comprehend the response to antiretroviral therapy
Symptoms of HIV
The common symptoms of HIV include
Fever
Chills
Rash
Night sweats
Muscle aches
Sore throat
Fatigue
Swollen lymph nodes
Mouth ulcers
Who should get tested?
The HIV 1 RNA quantitative viral load test is advised in individuals who have/are
HIV positive
Born to HIV-positive mother
Had sex with same gender
Had anal or vaginal sex with someone who is HIV positive
Shared needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment
Had more than one sex partner
Been diagnosed with or treated for another sexually transmitted disease
Been diagnosed with or treated for hepatitis or tuberculosis
Test preparation
No special preparation is required to take HIV-1 RNA quantitative viral load test.
Please talk to your healthcare provider if you are on any medications before taking the test
Interpretation of the Test Results
The test results are based on the purpose you have HIV test for.
1. If you have taken the test to know the treatment response, then the test results are given as either negative/undetectable, low and high viral load.
Negative (or undetectable) viral load – It indicates that very low or negligible amounts of HIV are detected in your blood, which means your antiretroviral therapy is working for you and your immune system is protected against HIV infection. However, you need to continue taking the medications as prescribed to keep the infection under control.
Low viral load – It indicates a low amount of HIV detected in the blood, which means your antiretroviral therapy is working for you by stopping the growth of HIV in your body systems.
High viral load – It indicates a very high amount of HIV detected in your system, which means your therapy is not working against the bacteria and you may require change in therapy soon. It also increases your risk of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
2. If you have taken the test to diagnose HIV, then the test results are given as either positive or negative.
Positive test results – It indicates the presence of HIV in your blood, which means you are most likely to have HIV infection. Your healthcare provider will order a few more additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Negative test results – It indicates there was no HIV detected in your blood, which means you probably don’t have HIV infection
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for HIV-1 RNA quantitative viral load test?
The test results for HIV-1 RNA quantitative viral load test are generally available within 3 – 4 working days after the sample collection. However, it can also take a little longer at times
Are there any risks associated with HIV-1 RNA quantitative viral load test?
No, there are no potential risks associated with HIV-1 RNA quantitative viral load test. It is a simple blood test that may involve negligible risk such as a slight sting or a bruise at the site of needle insertion. It usually resolves within a few minutes to a couple of hours. Rarely, the site can also become infected
Can HIV infection be prevented after being exposed to the virus?
Yes, there is an emergency treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV. This should only be used after being exposed to HIV and only after talking with your doctor. PEP can help prevent infection if started within three days of exposure; the sooner it is started, the more effective it is. You will, however, be tested before and after taking PEP
Should HIV testing be performed on pregnant women??
Yes, HIV testing is a must for all pregnant women. Testing during pregnancy helps in the detection of infection and the protection of the infant. The frequency of newborns born with HIV has reduced as a result of HIV screening and treatment. Beginning therapy as soon as possible during pregnancy is related to higher efficiency and much lower risk (1% or less) of HIV transmission to the infant. However, the treatment is also beneficial when initiated during labor or shortly after the baby is born
How soon after being exposed to HIV can one undergo an HIV-1 antibody test?
The HIV-1 antibody test should be performed at least three to four weeks following the initial exposure. After the first infection, it takes at least two to three weeks for the development of antigens and three to four weeks for the antibodies to form. Any test performed before this time may yield false-negative test results. It may also take a little longer in a few cases
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