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What is HIV-1 RNA test?

The HIV-1 RNA Test is a blood test that uses PCR technology for early detection of the HIV virus. The test uses NAAT - a technology that can detect very small amounts of the viral RNA

The HIV Virus has two subtypes; HIV-1 is the most common subtype, across the world. The test can detect the virus as early as 2-3 weeks in blood samples

What is HIV and HIV-1?

HIV is a viral infection that spreads thorugh contaminated body fluids and weakens the immunity and defense of the body

There are different types of HIV infection, and nearly 90% of HIV infections belong to the HIV-1 subtype.

Who should do this test?

This test should be done by people with multiple partners, those engaging in unprotected intercourse, intravenous drug users and people who have had unsafe blood transfusions.

Common signs of advanced HIV infection include white patches in the mouth, repeated infections, weight loss, night sweats and swollen neck lumps

When to do this test?

This test is meant for early detection of HIV infection. This test is ideal for the following situations:

  • Recent exposure: You were exposed to body fluids of an HIV positive patient, less than 1 month ago
  • Health workers: You are a health worker and had a needle injury from a known patient of HIV, very recently
  • Strong suspicion of HIV: You tested negative for HIV in screening tets, but your symptoms suggest that you may be infected with HIV.
  • Confirmatory Test: To confirm HIV infection, if you were positive on a screening test.

How is the test done?

This is a simple blood test and requires no special preparation. You do not need to be fasting for this test.

To perform this test, a sample of blood will be drawn from your vein, by inserting a sterile needle. The blood sample will then be analyzed in the lab.

What will be included in the report?

The report includes a single result - whether the HIV-1 RNA was detected or not. The normal report will mention - 'Target Not Detectedd'

Test Accuracy and Earliet Possible date of detection

The test is highly accurate if done at least 2-3 weeks after initial exposure. It is advisable to repeat the test after a month, in case it is initially negative, but your doctor believes you may be infected

The test can detect as few as 97 copies of the HIV-RNA per ml of blood - this makes it useful for early diagnosis

What is the normal range for this test?

The normal range for HIV-1-RNA Test is Target Not Detected

Summary

Sample TypeBlood
Time to Get ReportUpto 1 week
Test MethodReal Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)/ Nucleic Acid Amplification Technology
Normal RangeHIV-1-RNA Target Not Detected
Purpose of testDetects HIV-1 Infection
Intended forAll genders, all ages
Fasting RequiredNo
Total Tests1
Doctor's Prescription RequiredNo
Reports Available ByPDF available through Watsapp,Email and Hardcopy(on request)
Other NamesHIV RNA Test, HIV PCR Test, HIV NAAT Test

Frequently Asked Questions

After infection, the HIV virus is present in the blood, but in very low quantities. Most tests cannot detect such low amountsRNA PCR tests use NAAT : a technology that clones the smallest amounts of HIV, so that it can be easily detected. For this reason RNA PCR tests are recommended for early diagnosis.

The test if positive, is considered confirmatory of HIV infection. If the test is negative, it does not completely rule out HIV infection. Reasons for false negatives include : HIV-2 infection, testing too close to time of exposure (< 3 weeks), Contamination of the sample, other miscellaneous reasons

The test can detect HIV-1 virus 12-19 days after exposure. Accuracy improves after 1 month.

No, the viral load test measures the number of copies of HIV-1 RNA. It is used in known cases of HIV.

No, the HIV CMIA and ELISA Tests are used to detect the HIV-P24 antigen and/or antibodies. These tests do not detect the HIV RNA (part of HIV genome). They are less sensitive and can detect the virus much later than the HIV-1 RNA Test.

Consider retesting by a 4th generation test after 1 month.

The test can detect as few as 97 copies / ml of blood.

Why Choose Pathofast for HIV-1-RNA Detection Test

Pathofast Lab in Pune, is the best lab in Pune for accurate and reliable blood tests. Our lab is located conveniently in the center of Pune and we also offer home sample collection for the HIV-1-RNA Detection Test in various areas of Pune.

You can be assured of quality service and timely and accurate reports

Home Sample Collection is Available for HIV-1-RNA Detection Test at the following locations in Pune :

  • Jangli Maharaj Nagar
  • Ravet
  • Viman Nagar
  • Shastrinagar, Yerawada
  • NIBM Undri Road, Kondhwa
  • Camp
  • Aundh
  • Baner
  • Dattwadi
  • Undri
  • Pimpri-Chinchwad
  • Kalyani Nagar
  • Koregaon Park
  • Sadashiv Peth