Tests to Stage and Monitor HIV Immunology Review 410
TEST
CD4 T-cell count
HIV-1 viral load assays
COMMENTS
HIV infects CD4 cells. # declines as disease progresses. <200/μL defines AIDS according to CDC. Also
used to monitor therapy. Perform every 3–6 mo. Flow cytometry is gold standard.
Quantitative NAAT to determine plasma HIV RNA. Used to predict disease progression, determine when
to start antiretroviral therapy, & monitor response to therapy. Test 2–8 wk after start of therapy & then
every 3–4 mo. Same assay should be used in order to assess changes.
