HIV-2 RNA Combo by Flow Cytometry & Real-time PCR - EDTA Blood & Plasma

The HIV-2 RNA Combo by Flow Cytometry & Real-time PCR measures the quantity of HIV-2 RNA in blood and plasma samples.

• To confirm HIV-2 infection • To monitor the viral load of HIV-2 for prognosis • To determine whether treatment is working • To assess the progression of the disease and to evaluate the efficacy of antiretroviral therapy

This test may be recommended if you • have had a diagnosis of HIV-2 infection, • have symptoms suggestive of HIV-2 infection, • have a partner or family member who has been diagnosed with HIV-2 infection, or • are undergoing treatment for HIV-2.

Abnormal results may indicate that you have active replication of the virus in your body or an ineffective treatment regimen.

During this test, your healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm or collect a plasma sample. They will send the sample to a laboratory for testing.

Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking and about any specific requirements that you have.

• CD4 Count: This test measures the number of CD4 cells in your blood, which can indicate the progression of the disease. • ELISA: This antibody test can confirm HIV-2 infection.

HIV-2 viral load testing or HIV-2 RNA quantification

HIV-2 is the second type of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that infects humans. This virus primarily affects people in Western Africa and is less infectious than HIV-1, which is more widespread globally. Like HIV-1, HIV-2 damages your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and other severe health conditions.