Test : Human Immunodeficiency Virus DNA Amplification
Indications : This test is usually ordered for patients who have tested negative for HIV serology and western blot.
It has been found that immune blotting overestimates the presence of HIV 2 or, HIV 1 and 2 dual infections. The method used is
polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The DNA is extracted from blood samples through standardized methods. A small part of the DNA is subjected to the first round of amplification using the PCR method. If this is negative some more DNA is put through another round of amplification.
The PCR method helps to magnify the HIV DNA that is found along with human DNA. The amplified products are fragmented and subjected to agarose gel electrophoresis. This helps the separation of the DNA fragments according to their molecular weight. Probes are used to help detect the presence of viral
DNA.
Physiology : Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the causative agent of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (
AIDS).
HIV contains an RNA genome that will integrate with the host DNA causing severe immune system damage in the host.
Interpretation : Normal
No HIV DNA can be detected
Abnormal
HIV DNA can be detected with the help of specific probes.
Sample : No HIV viral DNA detected in blood.
Test Method : Polymerase chain reaction and blotting.
Related Tests : Blood