HIV Viral Load Test
The HIV Viral Load Test is a blood test that measures the amount of HIV in a sample of blood. The test looks for genetic material from the virus in the blood, using molecular tests or nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT or NAT). The test is used to monitor the effectiveness of HIV treatment and to determine how well HIV medicines are working. The goal of HIV treatment is to reduce the amount of virus in the blood until there is too little to detect
Click here to learn about the role of the laboratory in HIV/AIDS management.
Indications of the Test
The HIV 1&2 Viral Load Test is used to monitor the progression of HIV infection and to determine the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART). The Kenya ART guidelines provide for regular monitoring of viral load for patients on ART treatment. The aim is to ensure the treatments work as intended to suppress HIV replication and disease progression to full-blown AIDS.
Aside from regular monitoring, some clinical situations may warrant checking HIV viral loads. These include:-
- Emergence or re-emergence of new opportunistic infections
- Suspected non-adherence to treatment
- Confirmation of treatment failure and evidence to support switching to different treatment
- Pregnancy or for couples planning pregnancy
Patient Preparation/Instructions
There is no special preparation required for the HIV-1 and HIV-2 Viral Load Test. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions regarding taking their HIV medicines and scheduling regular viral load tests..
Typical Reference Values
The typical reference values for the HIV 1&2 Viral Load Test are measured in copies of HIV RNA per milliliter (mL) of blood. The reference range for a person with HIV who is not on ART is typically between 50 and 100,000 copies/mL. For a person on ART, the goal is to achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load, which is typically less than 20 to 75 copies/mL[1].
Waiting time for the HIV Viral Load test
The turnaround time for the HIV 1&2 Viral Load Test in our laboratory is 24 hours. This allows patients and the care team to make timely treatment decisions.
Order This Test
To order the HIV Viral Load Test, click the “Order Test” button and add it to the cart.
You can also click on the WhatsApp button to contact our care team for assistance.
Related Tests
- HIV PCR Test
- Hepatitis B Viral Load
- TB Genexpert Test
