| (Microbiology) |
| Investigations | Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) The virus causes depletion of CD4+ T cells and eventually lead to the development of opportunistic infection if left untreated. Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 accounts for the majority of HIV infections worldwide. Serology Tests HIV antibody/antigen screen (HIV-1/2 4th generation antibody/antigen and immunoblot tests) Molecular Tests HIV-1 RNA HIV-1/2 qualitative PCR HIV-1 Antiretroviral Resistance Genotype HIV-1 Genotypic Tropism HIV-1 Integrase |
Inform lab before sending | No, except for URGENT SAMPLES. Contact the laboratory on 0151 706 4410 to request urgent testing, including HIV-1 RNA. | Specimen type | Serology Clotted blood: 5ml Clot activator and separation gel (GOLD CAPPED) container. Molecular EDTA: 4ml blood into a EDTA (LAVENDER CAPPED) container. PBMC: 4ml blood into a EDTA (LAVENDER CAPPED) container. Washed Sperm: Aliquot at least 0.5ml of cell suspension into a sterile leak-proof container. |
Ideal time to take specimen | Labelling requirements | click here | How to take the specimen | Transport to the laboratory | Bloods should arrive at the laboratory no later than 16:00 hours. The integrity of samples may be compromised if they are not received in the laboratory within 24h of collection. If transport is delayed then store at +4°C |
Test Times | Serology: Daily HIV-1 RNA: daily (weekdays) HIV Genotype: Weekly |
Turnround | Serology: 5 working days HIV-1 RNA: 3 working days HIV Genotype: 2 weeks |
Additional information | A new positive HIV serology result will need confirmation with a repeat sample. Please complete as much details as possible on our dedicated HIV resistance forms when requesting HIV resistance or tropism tests. click here |
| Additional Examination Requests | click here |