Qualitative human immunodeficiency virus RNA analysis of dried blood spots for diagnosis of infections in infants.

The Gen-Probe Aptima human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) RNA assay was adapted for the diagnosis of HIV infection in infants by using dried blood spots. The assay was 99% sensitive (128/129) and 100% specific (162/162). This may prove useful in resource-limited settings, since it precludes the need for a phlebotomist and maintenance of a cold chain.

Comparison of two rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) assays, Determine HIV-1/2 and OraQuick Advance Rapid HIV-1/2, for detection of recent HIV seroconversion.

Modified protocols of two rapid tests were compared with a less sensitive (LS) (detuned) enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for their abilities to distinguish recent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seroconversion from long-term infections. The results for samples from 100 HIV-positive patient that had previously been tested by the Vironostika LS EIA had a 97% concordance with the results of the Determine HIV 1/2 assay and 93% concordance with those of the OraQuick HIV 1/2 assay.