Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 (HIV-1) by Quantitative NAAT, CSF

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR10963Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 3000872CPT Code 87536

Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 (HIV-1) by Quantitative NAAT, CSF

Also known as: HIVCSF QNT

Clinical Use

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Use

This test is used to detect and quantify HIV-1 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to assist in the management of patients with HIV-1 infection. It is particularly useful for evaluating the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy by assessing viral load in the CSF. The test provides quantitative results which are essential for monitoring changes in HIV-1 RNA concentration, which can be indicative of treatment efficacy or disease progression. However, the clinical significance of these changes is not fully established, and results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical presentation and other laboratory findings.

Special Instructions

The test requires a specific collection and handling procedure for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF must be transferred to an ARUP standard transport tube and shipped frozen to maintain specimen stability. It's recommended to coordinate with ARUP Client Services for kit supplies and transport instructions to ensure proper handling.

Limitations

The test has a quantitative range of 1.70-7.00 log copies/mL (50-10,000,000 copies/mL), meaning it may not detect viral loads below this threshold or in the presence of inhibitors. An interpretation of 'Not Detected' does not definitively rule out the presence of HIV-1 RNA. The assay should not be used for screening blood donors or human cells, tissues, or cellular/tissue-based products. Accurate quantification may not be possible if the assay detects but cannot quantify the virus below 1.70 log copies/mL.

Test Details

New York Approved