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HIV I RNA Viral Load (PCR)

HIV I RNA Viral Load (PCR)

The HIV-1 RNA Viral Load test, commonly known as the PCR test, is a vital diagnostic tool for assessing and managing HIV-1 infection. By quantifying the amount of HIV-1 RNA in a patient's plasma, this test provides crucial insights into the severity of the infection and the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Utilizing real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), the test is highly sensitive and specific, allowing for accurate detection and quantification of viral RNA. The results, expressed as copies per milliliter, guide healthcare providers in evaluating treatment efficacy, detecting drug resistance, and monitoring disease progression. While the test is indispensable for adult patients, it is not FDA-approved for pediatric diagnosis, necessitating additional testing for children. Despite its reliability, factors such as false positives and specimen handling can affect results. Overall, the HIV-1 RNA Viral Load test is integral to informed clinical decision-making in HIV management.

Price of test:£226

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £226

Awaiting result:

12 hours

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

The HIV-1 RNA Viral Load test is vital for managing HIV infection and assessing antiretroviral therapy (ART) effectiveness. It quantifies HIV-1 RNA in plasma using RT-PCR, offering insights into infection severity and treatment response. Key steps include:

- Sample Collection: Blood is drawn from the patient.
- RNA Extraction: HIV-1 RNA is isolated from plasma.
- RT-PCR Amplification: RNA is converted to cDNA and amplified.
- Detection: Fluorescent probes quantify viral load.

Results guide treatment decisions, monitor ART efficacy, and detect drug resistance, ensuring comprehensive HIV management.

Who Should Get Tested

The HIV-1 RNA Viral Load test is vital for managing HIV infection. It measures the amount of HIV-1 RNA in plasma, guiding treatment decisions. Key points include:

- Baseline Measurement: Establishes initial viral load before starting antiretroviral therapy (ART).
- Monitoring Treatment: Regular testing checks ART effectiveness; decreasing viral load indicates success.
- Drug Resistance: Identifies resistance, aiding in treatment adjustments.
- Non-Compliance: Detects non-adherence to ART through rising viral loads.
- Disease Progression: Monitors HIV-1 progression, informing clinical decisions.

This test is essential for effective HIV management.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results is crucial for managing HIV-1 infection. The HIV-1 RNA Viral Load test measures the amount of HIV-1 RNA in plasma, providing insights into infection severity and treatment efficacy. Results are reported as RNA copies per milliliter:

- Undetected: No HIV-1 RNA detected.
- <20 copies/mL: RNA detected, but below quantification limit.
- 20-10,000,000 copies/mL: Quantified viral load, guiding treatment decisions.
- >10,000,000 copies/mL: RNA detected above quantification limit.

These results help assess treatment effectiveness, detect drug resistance, and monitor disease progression.

Price of test:£226

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £226

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation

Advanced AI Interpretation

Diagu's AI system represents a breakthrough in medical test analysis, employing state-of-the-art algorithms meticulously trained on a vast spectrum of authoritative medical literature and data. This system intricately analyses laboratory test results, extracting nuanced insights that might elude conventional methods. Our AI delves into complex interrelations between various health markers, offering a comprehensive understanding that supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. The foundation of our AI's analytical prowess lies in its extensive training, encompassing data from globally recognised medical journals, trusted healthcare databases, and breakthrough scientific studies. This ensures that every analysis is grounded in the latest and most comprehensive medical knowledge.

Expert Doctor Confirmation

While our AI provides deep analytical insights, the human touch remains indispensable. Every AI-generated interpretation is meticulously reviewed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring a harmonious blend of advanced technology and expert clinical judgment. This dual-layer approach guarantees that the insights provided are not only technologically sophisticated but also clinically relevant. Our medical experts ensure that the AI's interpretations align with current medical standards and practices, adding a layer of validation that only seasoned healthcare professionals can provide. This process reinforces the reliability of the test results, offering peace of mind to both patients and healthcare providers.

Language Model and Trusted Sources

At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.

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