HIV Type 1, Quantitative, Plasma

HIV PCR QT

Synonyms:

HIV viral load

HIV PCR Ultra Sensitive

HIV-1 RNA PCR Viral Load

Performing Lab:

Saint Luke's Regional Laboratories

Required Patient Info:

For NICU and Nursery see: NEONATAL HIV-1 RNA Detection and Quantification, Plasma

Container Type:

Lavender top (EDTA) tube

Specimen Type:

Plasma

Preferred Volume:

2 mL plasma

Minimum Volume:

1 mL plasma

Specimen Processing:

1. Within 24 hours of collection, EDTA whole blood must be received at SLH Lab.

2. Centrifuge specimen for 10 minutes at 4500 rpm:

- Remove plasma from the cells and aseptically place the EDTA plasma in a screw-capped, sterile, plastic vial.
- Maintain sterility and forward promptly.

Store and Transport:

EDTA whole blood - room temperature or refrigerated
Plasma - refrigerated or frozen

CPT Codes:

87536 - HIV 1 RNA by PCR Quant (EAP 30050340)

Test Schedule:

One to two times per week

Method:

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Reference Ranges:

< 20 copies/mL

Notes:

This test is used to monitor viral load in patients known to be HIV positive.

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