HIV RNA

Published: 30 June 2012
  • The genetic material of HIV is composed of ribonucleic acid (RNA).
  • HIV-specific sequences of RNA can be detected by nucleic acid testing (NAT).
  • NAT is not in general use for diagnosis of HIV infection, but is used to measure HIV RNA concentrations (viral load levels) in HIV-positive individuals.

The genetic material of HIV (its genome) is composed of ribonucleic acid (RNA), a close cousin to the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) that makes up human and nearly all other genomes.

Tests known as nucleic acid tests (NATs) can be used to detect sequences of RNA unique to HIV. Although such tests have been developed and used for diagnosis of HIV infection – and in fact found to be more sensitive than some earlier antibody tests during the window period – NATs are not in general use for diagnosis of HIV.1 They are used for screening of donated blood plasma in some countries, including the UK (since 2007). The principal use of HIV RNA testing is to quantify HIV RNA levels (HIV viral load) in the blood plasma of people who have already been confirmed as HIV-positive by antibody testing.2

Related Links

References

  1. Stramer SL et al. Detection of HIV-1 and HCV donations among antibody-negative blood donors by nucleic-acid amplification testing. N Engl J Med 351: 760-768, 2004
  2. Vargo J et al. Clinical specificity and sensitivity of a blood screening assay for detection of HIV-1 and HCV RNA. Transfusion 42(7):876-885, 2002
This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.