HIV viral load and CD4
HIV viral load · HIV RNA · CD4 count · immune status test · CD4 cells
This blood test is for people living with HIV. It shows how much virus is in the blood and how many protective immune cells you have.
To plan how to start treatment and to check regularly that it is working.
⏱ Duration: the blood draw takes a few minutes; results usually come in a few days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. You usually do not need to fast strictly, but it is better to come 3 to 4 hours after a light, non-fatty meal. Check with the lab.
- Treatment. Take your pills as usual, at your usual time. Do not skip them before the test.
- How you feel. If you have a cold or fever now, tell your doctor. It may be better to move the test.
- Clothing. A sleeve you can easily roll up above the elbow.
What to bring
- Your referral or list of tests
- Your ID
- Past results
- A list of all your medicines
How it goes
- You sit down and rest your arm on the armrest
- A band is tied above your elbow, and you are asked to clench your fist a few times
- The skin is wiped with antiseptic
- A quick prick. Blood fills the tubes in a few seconds
- The needle comes out, and a cotton pad is pressed on the spot
What you'll feel
- A quick prick, like a pinch
- Sometimes slight dizziness. Tell the nurse, and they will help you lie down
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes
- Keep taking your treatment without breaks
- Your result is confidential. Only you or your doctor will get it.
Contact a doctor straight away if
- The puncture site is very swollen, painful, and red
- A high fever for several days, severe shortness of breath, or confusion: see a doctor urgently or call emergency services
Common questions
What does undetectable mean?
It means the treatment is working. When the virus stays undetectable, HIV is not passed on through sex. Treatment still continues.
Why does CD4 change from test to test?
It depends on how you feel, the time of day, and even the lab. The doctor looks at the trend over several tests.