|
| ||
| Lab results-HIV POS? Jun 9, 2005 The elisa returned 'reactive'in Jan, 05. Other results are as follow: HIV_1 by PCR=41,328 log 10 HIV-1 RNA=4,616 %CD4 Pos. lymph=43.2 Absolute CD4 Helper =1,382 Abs CD8 Supressor =1040 % CD8 Pos Lymph=32.5 CD4/CD8 Ratio=1.33 Do I need to start treatment? Is there a difference between the Elisa and the Blot test? Help! |
|||
|
|
Response from Dr. Luzuriaga
The ELISA is a screening test for HIV antibodies whereas the Western blot is a confirmatory test that looks for antibodies to specific HIV proteins. You don't mention whether you have had any symptoms of HIV infection. If you have symptoms, most experts would recommend therapy, regardless of your CD4 or viral load level. The adult guidelines have recently been updated (See http://aidsinfo.nih.gov/guidelines/). For asymptomatic individuals, therapy is not generally recommended for CD4> 350 and viral load < 100,000. However, actual therapy recommendations are based on a number of considerations. Please take a look at the guidelines and discuss your situation with your care provider to determine a course that is best for you. |
||
![]() HIV Camping | ![]() How is hepatitis spread? |
Q&A TERMS OF USE
This forum is designed for educational purposes only, and experts are not rendering medical, mental health, legal or other professional advice or services. If you have or suspect you may have a medical, mental health, legal or other problem that requires advice, consult your own caregiver, attorney or other qualified professional.
Experts appearing on this page are independent and are solely responsible for editing and fact-checking their material. Neither TheBody.com nor any advertiser is the publisher or speaker of posted visitors' questions or the experts' material.
Review our complete terms of use and copyright notice.










