Ulta Lab Tests

HIV-1 RNA, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR

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The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: HIV 1 RNA Quantitative Real Time PCR

HIV 1 RNA, Qn PCR

HIV 1 RNA, Qn PCR

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The HIV-1 RNA, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR test contains 1 test with 2 biomarkers .

Brief Description: The Quantitative HIV-1 RNA Real-Time PCR test, commonly referred to as a viral load test, is a critical diagnostic tool used in the management of HIV infection. This test quantifies the amount of HIV-1 RNA (viral genetic material) present in the blood, providing a direct measure of the virus's activity level. Real-Time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a highly sensitive technique that amplifies the HIV RNA, allowing for the precise quantification of even very low levels of the virus.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Plasma

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why a Quantitative HIV-1 RNA Real-Time PCR Test May Be Ordered

This test is ordered for several reasons:

  1. Initial Diagnosis: To confirm HIV infection in individuals with a reactive (positive) result from an initial HIV screening test.
  2. Baseline Measurement: To establish a baseline viral load before initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART).
  3. Monitoring Treatment Efficacy: To assess the effectiveness of ART by measuring reductions in viral load.
  4. Detecting Treatment Failure: To identify virologic failure, indicated by a rising viral load despite ongoing treatment.
  5. During Clinical Trials: To evaluate the efficacy of new HIV treatments or treatment strategies.

What the Quantitative HIV-1 RNA Real-Time PCR Test Checks For

The test specifically checks for the presence and quantity of HIV-1 RNA in the blood. The viral load is reported as the number of copies of HIV RNA per milliliter of blood, providing a direct measure of the virus's activity and replication rate in the body.

Additional Lab Tests Ordered Alongside the Quantitative HIV-1 RNA Real-Time PCR Test

When this test is ordered, additional tests are often included to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the individual's health status and to monitor for potential complications associated with HIV. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. CD4 T-cell Count:

    • Purpose: To measure the number of CD4+ T-cells in the blood, which are a type of white blood cell targeted and destroyed by HIV.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess the immune system's health and determine the stage of HIV infection, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring disease progression.

  2. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential:

    • Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health, including red cells, white cells, and platelets.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To identify anemia, leukopenia, and other hematological abnormalities common in HIV-infected individuals.

  3. Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Screening:

    • Purpose: To test for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, which have higher co-infection rates with HIV.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Co-infections can influence HIV treatment choices and are important in managing overall health in HIV-positive individuals.

  4. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Panel:

    • Purpose: To screen for other STIs, such as syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Individuals with HIV are at increased risk for other STIs, and these infections can also impact HIV disease progression and transmission risk.

  5. Lipid Profile:

    • Purpose: To measure cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Some antiretroviral medications can affect lipid metabolism, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

  6. Glucose and HbA1c:

    • Purpose: To measure blood glucose levels and the HbA1c, which provides an average blood glucose level over about three months.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Antiretroviral therapy, especially with protease inhibitors, can affect glucose metabolism, leading to insulin resistance or diabetes.

  7. Liver Function Test:

    • Purpose: To assess liver enzyme levels and overall liver function.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Liver function can be compromised by HIV infection, antiretroviral medications, or co-infections with hepatitis viruses.

  8. Renal Function Test:

    • Purpose: To evaluate kidney function.
    • Why Is It Ordered: HIV and certain HIV medications can affect kidney health, necessitating regular monitoring.

  9. Urinalysis:

    • Purpose: To analyze the urine for abnormalities, such as proteinuria or hematuria.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To screen for kidney disease, which can be a complication of HIV or its treatment.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Quantitative HIV-1 RNA Real-Time PCR test, provide a comprehensive overview of the health status of individuals living with HIV. They are crucial for tailoring HIV treatment, managing co-infections and complications, and monitoring the overall health and immune function of HIV-positive individuals. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual's clinical presentation, treatment history, and current health needs.

Conditions or Diseases Requiring a Quantitative HIV-1 RNA Real-Time PCR Test

This test is specifically used in the context of HIV-1 infection to:

  • Diagnose acute and chronic HIV-1 infections.
  • Monitor the progression of HIV disease.
  • Assess and monitor the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy.

Usage of Quantitative HIV-1 RNA Real-Time PCR Test Results by Health Care Providers

Healthcare providers use the results of the viral load test to:

  1. Confirm HIV Infection: A detectable viral load confirms active HIV infection.
  2. Guide Treatment Decisions: Initiating ART in patients with a high viral load to reduce the risk of disease progression and transmission.
  3. Monitor Treatment Response: A decreasing viral load indicates effective ART, while a stable or increasing viral load may suggest treatment failure or non-adherence.
  4. Adjust Treatment Regimens: In cases of virologic failure, results guide changes in ART to more effective regimens, often based on drug resistance profiles.
  5. Evaluate Prognosis: Higher viral loads are associated with faster disease progression and worse outcomes, so viral load can help in prognostic assessments.
We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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