In addition to the results of the physical examination and subjective complaints experienced by PLWHA, laboratory examinations play a role in the care and treatment of PLWHA. All of this is needed in order to make an appropriate HIV/AIDS management plan, so that the virus can be controlled, health status will be better and reduce the possibility of transmitting the virus to other people.

To monitor the health status of PLWHA and the success of HIV treatment, several laboratory tests are routinely carried out, including:
• CD4 count: parameter to assess the risk of opportunistic infections and the functioning of the immune system.

• CD4 percentage: said to be more stable than the CD4 count over a period of time. However, the CD4 count more accurately describes the work of the immune system than the CD4 percentage.

• HIV RNA: to assess response to HIV treatment.

• Complete Hematology: examination that is often requested, because it can reveal the presence of infection, anemia and other medical problems.

• Drug Resistance Test: to determine the most suitable drug.

• Blood Chemistry Panel: to monitor the side effects of drugs on body organs.

• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Screening: screening for syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia. The presence of STDs can increase the risk of transmitting HIV to others.

• PAP smear (Cervical and Anal): abnormal cell growth in the cervix (women) and anus (men and women) which often occurs in PLWHA can degenerate malignantly if not treated early.

• Hepatitis A, B, and C tests: in PLWHA, co-infection with hepatitis is not uncommon.

• Tuberculosis test: in PLWHA, untreated TB can be fatal. Detection and treatment of TB is important to prevent transmission of TB to other people.

• Toxoplasmosis screening: Toxoplasmosis can be an opportinistic infection that can be fatal for people living with HIV.

• Lipid Profile Examination (Cholesterol and Triglycerides): some HIV drugs affect lipid metabolism. High lipid levels tend to cause other medical problems, including heart problems.

• Fasting Glucose Levels: some HIV drugs can increase blood glucose levels, and have the potential to cause complications, such as diabetes mellitus.

• Pregnancy test: so that efforts can be made immediately to reduce the risk of HIV transmission to the baby.

Patient preparation and examination materials

Patients before taking blood specimens are expected to fast for 10-12 hours beforehand, for a pap smear it can be done starting on the 3rd day of menstruation/last menstrual day and 2 days before not having sex first. for the type of sample needed is urine and blood material from veins.

For further information, please contact the nearest pramita clinical laboratory in your city.

Author : dr. Tony Iman, Sp.PK (Doctor in Charge of Pramita Laboratory Jl. Kelapa Dua Raya No. 18 Jakarta).