HIV – Viral Load

Pathology category

Microbiology - Virology

Code

VLT

Referral code

Request form

ICE request form

Test information

PCR test to detect and quantify HIV RNA on EDTA plasma of HIV-infected individuals. Tests performed in a UKAS Accredited Medical Laboratory No. 8873.

Guidelines

BASHH Guidelines for HIV testing

Pre-analytical

Please ensure the sample is transported to the laboratory as soon as possible.

Reference range

Tube type

Tube type info

Purple top 5ml EDTA

Special requirements

Sample must be received within 48 hours

Minimum volume

2x 5ml purple top EDTA tubes

Assay frequency

Monday – Friday

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

24 hours

TAT Inpatient

1 - 4 days

TAT GP/Outpatient

1 - 4 days

Referral lab