HIV-1/2 Viral Load & Genotypic Resistance Test
Also known as: HIV viral load · HIV resistance testing · HIV RNA PCR
Quantitative HIV RNA measurement with genotypic antiretroviral resistance profiling to support treatment monitoring and clinical decision-making.
Reviewed by a certified medical doctor
This page and the corresponding laboratory report are overseen by an in-house clinician to ensure medical accuracy and patient safety.
- Reviewing doctorDr. Chidinma Eze, MBBS, FWACP
- Clinical titleConsultant Hematologist
- MDCN registrationMDCN/2013/64771
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Last clinical review
5 Aug 2026
Next review due 5 Aug 2027
“Viral load monitoring is the cornerstone of modern HIV care. Pairing quantification with resistance profiling tells clinicians not only how much virus is present, but whether the current regimen is likely to remain effective.”
Dr. Chidinma Eze, MBBS, FWACP
When is this test recommended?
Indicated for:
- Baseline assessment before starting antiretroviral therapy
- Treatment monitoring at clinically indicated intervals
- Suspected treatment failure or virological rebound
- Resistance profiling to guide regimen switching
- Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) monitoring
How to prepare and how the sample is collected
- Specimen typeEDTA plasma
- Turnaround10 business days
Patient preparation
No fasting is required. Sample must be collected in an EDTA tube and processed within 6 hours of collection to preserve RNA integrity.
Collection methods
- Painless cheek (buccal) swab — quick, non-invasive and suitable for all ages.
- Venous blood draw — EDTA whole blood, taken by a certified phlebotomist.
- Discreet home collection kit — courier-dispatched nationwide with clear instructions.
How your sample is analysed
HIV-1 RNA is quantified by real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). Where indicated, reverse transcriptase and protease gene regions are sequenced by Sanger or next-generation sequencing and interpreted against curated resistance mutation databases.
Platforms & instrumentation
Real-time RT-qPCR platforms for viral quantification, plus Sanger / NGS sequencing for genotypic resistance interpretation.
- Documented standard operating procedures for every assay.
- Internal reference controls run alongside patient samples.
- Participation in external proficiency testing programmes.
- Dual-verification of every result before release.
How you receive your results
Encrypted, password-protected PDF report
Your results are delivered securely as an encrypted, password-protected PDF to your registered email address and WhatsApp. The file is never sent unprotected. Results are delivered as an encrypted, password-protected PDF to the requesting clinician and patient. Results are handled under strict confidentiality protocols.
Opening your report
- The PDF password follows a standard formula based on your personal details.
- Your counselor will confirm the exact password formula before release.
- Need help? Our team can re-issue or reset access on request.
Pre- and post-test counseling
Certified genetic counselors are available before and after your test to explain what the results mean, discuss implications for your family, and guide any next clinical steps.
Common questions about HIV-1/2 Viral Load & Genotypic Resistance Test
All samples are coded, results are delivered encrypted, and access is restricted to authorised laboratory and clinical staff, in line with the Nigeria Data Protection Act.
EDTA plasma should be separated within 6 hours of collection to preserve RNA integrity. Our centres process samples to this standard.
Where to give your sample
Plasma collection at Abuja, Lagos and Kaduna centres by certified phlebotomists.