HIV, human immunodeficiency virus - viral load

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Quantitation of HIV-1 virus viral load
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Whole blood ○ Plasma

Other Information

○ This test is not diagnostic for HIV-1 infection.
○ Collecting specimens for baseline viral load measurement is not indicated during acute illness as transient increases in viral load may occur

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

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

Collection Requirements

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

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ 24h for donor testing
○ PHOL: Up to 6 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4530

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

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

○ Donor specimens should be stored at room temperature (20-25˚C) for up to 24h after collection and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP. If a delay is anticipated, specimens whole blood can be held at room temperature for up to 4 hours or stored at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) for up to 24 hours.

○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing. Donor testing will be performed in-house.