An HIV-positive client who has been started on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) came back for a follow-up checkup. Which of the following will be the most helpful in determining the response to the therapy?
A. Rapid HIV antigen test
B. Western Blot analysis
C. Viral load test
D. White blood cell count
Correct Answer: C. Viral load test
A viral load test helps provide information on the health status and how well antiretroviral therapy (ART – treatment with HIV medicines) is controlling the virus.
Options A & B: Rapid HIV antigen test and western blot analysis monitor the presence of antibodies to HIV, so these tests will yield a positive result after the patient is infected with HIV even if the drug therapy is effective.
Option D: White blood cell count will be used to assess the impact of HIV on immune function but will not directly measure the effectiveness of the medicines.