There is a new technology for the early detection of HIV after 28 days of exposure called HIV DNA PCR. This test looks for the DNA copy of the HIV virus itself in your blood. It is extremely accurate and sensitive.

PCR Blood Test

The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test screens for genetic material associated with HIV rather than HIV antibodies, and can detect HIV in the blood within two or three weeks of infection.   The PCR test is also known as an HIV nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT).

Proviral HIV DNA by PCR

The HIV Proviral DNA by PCR is the most sensitive test for detecting infection. While most healthy individuals are accustomed to waiting 3 months for a conclusive result, the HIV Proviral DNA can provide conclusive results after only 28 days.

The DNA PCR is an antigen test, that is, a test that looks directly for the virus. This test is conclusive well before the antibody test because it is not dependant on an antibody response. It is looking for the actual genetic material of HIV, called "proviral DNA." If the specimen contains a particular HIV segment, it will be synthetically amplified (multiplied) so that it's easily detected. If even a small amount of virus is present in the specimen it is easily detected by this test. During acute infection (a few days to weeks after exposure), and before the body creates an immune response, HIV replicates to one of the highest levels throughout the entire illness. During the first two to four weeks, plasma viremia levels can be as high as 1 million copies per milliliter of whole blood.

The DNA PCR only needs 10 copies for detection. Although the manufacturer recommends testing after 28 days for conclusive results, a DNA PCR can clearly be used well before that time as a strong indicator. For patients with a high level of anxiety or strong reason to suspect infection, the DNA PCR and other PCR based techniques can be useful even days after exposure, not only to help rule out infection, but also to help support decisions about post exposure prophylaxis therapy.

The DNA by PCR plays an important role in the identification of acute exposure, and also the implementation of early treatment options. Although the clinical significance of starting therapy during acute infection is still controversial, some experts feel identification and treatment can significantly alter the natural course and severity of the illness. If started early enough after acute exposure experts hope to extend the time it takes for a person to develop full blown AIDS and even add years to a person's life.

Questions? 

If you would like to talk with someone about the HIV DNA PCR, please call (603) 862-3823.