HIV, human immunodeficiency virus - serology

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serologic detection of HIV viral antibodies/antigen
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Plasmas ○ Serum

Other Information

○ Stat testing can be performed in the setting of needlestick/occupational exposures if necessary.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum: serum separator tube (clotted blood)
○ Plasma: EDTA-blood tube (lavender top)

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood
○ Neonatal blood min 1 ml.

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL except Donor, Needlestick, Caseroom, HIV STAT (approved , interfaced)

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 72h (donors samples have a TAT of 24h)
○ Confirmatory testing is up to 6 days after receipt by PHOL

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4529

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens can be stored at room temperature (20-25˚C) for 72h after collection and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP

○ UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory will refer the first positive specimen to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for confirmation. Living/cadaveric donor testing will be performed in house.