The HIV Quantitative test, more formally called the HIV-1 RNA Quantitative test or HIV Viral Load test, measures the number of copies of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) genetic material (RNA) present in a milliliter (ml) of blood plasma
It is a crucial molecular test used for both diagnosing and managing HIV infection.
The viral load test can detect the presence of the virus in the blood as early as 10–15 days after exposure, often before the body has produced detectable antibodies. This makes it an effective tool for diagnosing acute HIV infection when symptoms may be non-specific.
