HIV Viral Load Tests - Monitoring HIV Progression

Specific Viral Load Tests designed to measure the amount of HIV in the blood for monitoring the progression of HIV infection.
Category
Test
Where to get
Conducted in specialized medical laboratories under healthcare provider's guidance.
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

HIV Viral Load Tests FAQ


Image credit: thebodypro.com

What is HIV viral load test?

The most advanced stage of an HIV infection is called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). An HIV viral load test is a type of HIV test that measures the amount of HIV genetic material in the blood. Testing a patient’s viral load can be used to diagnose an HIV infection, guide care, and monitor a patient’s response to treatment.

Do I need a viral load test if I have HIV?

A viral load test is needed to guide treatment decisions. If you have HIV, you'll probably start taking HIV medicines soon after your diagnosis. But first, you'll need a viral load test to find out how much virus is in your blood. This information helps your provider choose the right medicines for you.

Why do different labs measure HIV viral load?

That's because labs have different ways of measuring HIV viral load. Your provider needs to compare your test results over time to see if your viral load is going up or down, and different tests from different labs can be difficult to compare. An HIV viral load is a blood test that measures the amount of HIV in a sample of your blood.

What is a HIV viral load test?

It’s a lab test that measures of the amount of HIV in your blood. When your viral load is high, you have more HIV in your body. This means your immune system is not fighting HIV very well. HIV viral load tests are used to monitor the progress of your HIV infection and how well your treatment is working.

HIV Viral Load Tests References

If you want to know more about HIV Viral Load Tests, consider exploring links below:

Explore Related Topics

What are the challenges associated with long-term use of antiviral agents for HIV?

Examine the challenges that patients may face with prolonged use of antiviral agents for HIV treatment, including drug resistance and adherence issues.