Which combination represents the set of markers included in standard HIV viral marker testing?

Which combination represents the set of markers included in standard HIV viral marker testing?

• A. Anti-HIV-1, Anti-HIV-2, Anti-HTLV-I/II
• B. HIV-1 p24 antigen
• C. Anti-HIV-1 only
• D. Anti-HIV-2 only

Answer: (A)

Viral marker testing for retroviruses aims to detect exposure to the main retroviruses that affect transfusion safety. You want to identify antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2 because infections can be caused by either virus, and include antibodies to HTLV-I/II since HTLV is another retrovirus that can be transmitted via blood products. The combination of anti-HIV-1, anti-HIV-2, and anti-HTLV-I/II covers the usual retroviral markers tested together in standard HIV-related panels. While p24 antigen is an important marker for acute HIV infection, it is not part of this antibody-based marker set.

Viral marker testing for retroviruses aims to detect exposure to the main retroviruses that affect transfusion safety. You want to identify antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2 because infections can be caused by either virus, and include antibodies to HTLV-I/II since HTLV is another retrovirus that can be transmitted via blood products. The combination of anti-HIV-1, anti-HIV-2, and anti-HTLV-I/II covers the usual retroviral markers tested together in standard HIV-related panels. While p24 antigen is an important marker for acute HIV infection, it is not part of this antibody-based marker set.