What do my laboratory test results mean?

Your laboratory test results tell you and your health care providers how you are doing. Regular laboratory testing every 3 months gives the Health CARE Team the data needed to assure you are LIVING WELL WITH HIV. The following lab protocol is followed in the EIS clinics.

Laboratory Monitoring

Baseline testing: (1) HIV Viral Load by PCR; (2) Complete Blood Count (CBC) with CD4 (Tcells) count; (3) chemistry profiles including liver, renal function, and glucose (to screen for diabetes); (4) Lipid Profile; (5) Screen for common diseases in the general population, e.g. iron metabolism; (6) tests to screen for hidden diseases: Hepatitis A, B, C, Toxo, CMV; (7) when clinically indicated, tests for deficiencies of B12, folate, testosterone, and for endocrine disorders like thyroid.

People with HIV infection are at increased risk for other sexually transmitted diseases (STD) including syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, and these tests are repeated at least annually. HIV+ persons who are having unprotected sex are at very high risk of contracting infections which in the general population would have little or no effect, but among the HIV+ population become very serious and difficult to control.
We will also assess whether you have been exposed to tuberculosis (TB) by placing a PPD test under your skin with a needle (if you have not had a prior positive result). As long as you have negative results, the PPD should be repeated annually. If positive, you will need a chest x-ray and probably medication to prevent TB.

An HIV viral load (VL) is a measurement of the amount of HIV in your blood. You will need a VL as a baseline, and 2-8 weeks after initiating therapy or a new medicine; then every 3-4 months, at a significant clinical event, or significant change in VL. If your viral load is high, then the virus is gaining power in your system. If the viral load is low, the body is trying to fight and control the virus. If your viral load is "undetectable," you are still infectious, but your medications and/or your defense mechanisms plus a healthy lifestyle are controlling the virus.

CD4 cell count (also known as "T-cell count") performed as a baseline and then every 3-6 months is a measure of your immune function. If your CD4 count is low, the body is losing its defense over the disease. If your CD4 count is high, then your body has more ability to control the virus.

For patients taking HAART medications- Fasting glucose, fasting lipid profile at base line, 3-6 months, then as needed depending on changes in regimen, baseline values and risk for cardiovascular disease. If the lipids are high, that means there is increased fat in your blood and you are more at risk of heart disease. This can be controlled by a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition, and if necessary, your physician will prescribe medication.

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