HIV Monitor
HIV Monitor
HIV is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the human immune deficiency virus. It attacks and destroys healthy human cells, weakening the immune system, which protects the body from numerous diseases and infections. The more immune cells are destroyed, the more difficult it is to fight against infections. In some cases, HIV can progress to a potentially fatal illness known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
The HIV monitor test helps in the ongoing monitoring of those who have already been diagnosed with HIV. It involves two most common measures that assess HIV transmission. These include CD4 count and viral load
What is the HIV monitor test used for?
The test is recommended in HIV-positive individuals to:
· Lower the risk of disease progression
· Prevent the development of AIDS
· Shift their frame of mind towards positivity
Symptoms of HIV infection
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 monitor test is recommended for individuals who:
Have multiple sexual partners
Engage in sexual activities without any precautions such as condoms
Have partners who are HIV positive
Share needles, syringes, or other injecting drugs
Learn that they are pregnant
Have symptoms of other sexually transmitted diseases
Test preparation
No special preparations are required for HIV monitor test.
Please talk to your healthcare provider if you are at risk of other STDs or on any medications before taking the test
Interpretation of the Test Results
1. CD4 count:
Normal range: 500 to 1500 cells/mm3
2. Viral load:
Normal range: <20 to 75 copies of HIV/mL of blood
Deviation from the normal ranges
1. If the levels of CD4 cells go below 200 cells/mm3, it may mean that the individual will receive a diagnosis of stage 3 HIV (AIDS).
2. If the viral load level goes beyond 200 copies of HIV /mL of blood, the individual is at a greater risk of disease progression.
A detectable viral load is an indication of active and replicating phase of virus, faster disease progression, weak immune system, no positive effects of treatment, and a higher risk of AIDS
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) of the HIV monitor test?
The test results of the HIV monitor test are generally available within 1-2 working days after the sample collection. However, it can also take a little longer at times
How is the sample collected in the HIV monitor test?
The healthcare professional inserts a small needle into a vein in the arm to collect a few mL of blood sample in the sterile test tube. For easy collection of the blood sample, he may tie an elastic band to your upper arm or may ask you to make a fist
Are there any risks associated with HIV monitor tests?
No, there are no potential risks associated with HIV monitor tests. It is a simple blood test and may involve negligible risks such as feeling a slight sting or 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
If one is HIV-positive, is this a sign that they have AIDS?
No, a positive HIV test result does not indicate that one has AIDS. HIV can proceed to AIDS if an HIV-positive person does not receive appropriate therapy or take care of their health. In treatment-compliant individuals, HIV does not progress to AIDS
Should pregnant mothers get tested for HIV monitor tests?
Yes, to ensure the child’s safety, HIV-positive pregnant mothers need HIV monitor tests to understand the treatment effects and their disease status
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