HIV 1 - Quantitative (Viral Load)
Understanding HIV 1 - Quantitative (Viral Load)
What is HIV 1 - Quantitative (Viral Load)?
This test measures the amount of HIV viral RNA in the body. It helps to monitor the progress of the disease and ongoing treatment of HIV infection. It can also act as a preliminary test for HIV infection, however subsequent antibodies test should also be done for confirmation.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) destroys the immune system and causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It spreads through sexual contact and blood. Avoiding unprotected sex and contaminated needles can help in preventing the infection.
What is HIV 1 - Quantitative (Viral Load) used for?
The HIV Viral Load test is performed as routine when the patient is first diagnosed HIV positive, and subsequently it is performed at regular intervals to determine the efficacy of the treatment.
Interpreting HIV 1 - Quantitative (Viral Load) results
Interpretations
The HIV Viral Load results are reported in terms of number of copies of HIV in each ml of blood.
• >1,00,000 copies/ml: High viral load
• <10,000 copies/ml: Low viral load
• <20 copies/ml: Undetectable viral load
Other tests
