The lower limit of HIV RNA detection depends on the test used–some go down to 50 copies/ml, while other go as low as 20. High viral loads are linked to faster disease progression. Reducing the viral load to “undetectable” levels slows or stops disease progression and prevents HIV transmission to sex partners.
What is RNA PCR HIV test?
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests are used to detect HIV’s genetic material, called RNA. These tests can be used to screen the donated blood supply and to detect very early infections before antibodies have been developed. This test may be performed just days or weeks after exposure to HIV.
How accurate is PCR RNA HIV test?
That means that if you take an HIV test and get a positive or even an unclear result, you’ll need another blood test to confirm that you do or don’t have the virus. The results of both tests together are more than 99% accurate.
When is HIV RNA test conclusive?
The HIV RNA test is deemed to be 100% conclusive if done after 10 to 12 days from the date of exposure. There are some theories that say this test becomes less accurate from about 3 months post exposure. This is because at 3 months post exposure, the body would have made antibodies to fight the HIV virus.
What is normal viral load?
The results of a viral load test are described as the number of copies of HIV RNA in a millilitre of blood. But your doctor will normally just talk about your viral load as a number. For example, a viral load of 10,000 would be considered low; 100,000 would be considered high.
Is PCR and RNA test the same?
What is PCR testing? PCR tests are used to directly screen for the presence of viral RNA, which will be detectable in the body before antibodies form or symptoms of the disease are present.
What does it mean when the viral load is zero?
Having an undetectable viral load does mean that there is not enough HIV in your body fluids to pass HIV on during sex. In other words, you are not infectious. For as long as your viral load stays undetectable, your chance of passing on HIV to a sexual partner is zero.
