Differences in Viral Load Testing Methodology May Play an Important Role in Optimizing the Initial Management of HIV-lnfected Pregnant Women

摘要

One of the major success stories of HIV management is the significant drop in perinatal transmission rates. Much effort has been made in achieving a rate of < 200 cases/year in the United States. As part of routine management, providers rely heavily on blood tests to manage HIV-infected pregnant patients. Determination of maternal viral load (VL) and viral genotype are paramount in determining the optimal maternal and newborn antiretroviral regimen. Current methods of detecting HIV VL are polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based testing. There are, however, subtle differences in HIV VL detection methods that health care providers may not be familiar with. A recent case in our clinic highlights the complexities of testing for HIV during pregnancy.