HIV, human immunodeficiency virus - viral load

Quantitation of HIV-1 virus viral load
Microbiology
Serology
○ 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
○ EDTA-blood tube (lavender top)
○ Serum separator tube (clotted blood)

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood
Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery
PHOL
○ 24h for donor testing
○ PHOL: Up to 6 days
416-586-4800 extension 4530
NO
○ 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.