HIV-1 RNA quantitative (EDTA blood (eb))

Antibodies against the HIV virus become detectable approx. 2 weeks to 3 months after infection.

To safely rule out an infection, an examination is recommended after 1, 3 and 6 months.

ELISA is used as screening procedure which covers all subgroups of HIV-1 and HIV-2. Every first-time positive result is checked by means of immunoblotting (line assay). To rule out any mix-up of samples, a positive result must be confirmed by a second sample to be taken.

The following laboratory tests are also indicated in asymptomatic patients with first-time positive HIV serology:

• HIV-1 RNA (viral load), lymphocyte differentiation (in particular CD4),
• serological test for hepatitis B and C, lues, CMV and toxoplasmosis, the Quantiferon-TB Gold test
• direct detection of chlamydia trachomatis and, if necessary, Neisseria gonorrhoeae from urethral or cervical smear.

Genotypic resistance screening comprises the sequence-based identification of mutations of the reverse transcriptase and protease gene which make the virus resistant to RT inhibitors and protease inhibitors respectively.

Please request the integrase gene sequencing for the identification of resistances to integrase inhibitors separately.

CCR5 tropism: The test identifies the co-receptor usage of the present viral strain (CCR5 or CXCR4 tropism) and enables an estimation of the effectiveness of maraviroc therapy

Abacavir hypersensitivity: When treated with the RT inhibitor abacavir, HLA-B*5701 carriers can develop severe hypersensitivity symptoms. Carriers must therefore be ruled out before therapy is commenced.

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