HIV Genotypic Resistance Testing (Genotypic HIV Resistance Test)
This test analyzes the genetic material of HIV to identify specific mutations that may affect how the virus responds to antiretroviral medications.
["Helps determine the best treatment options for managing HIV by checking for drug resistance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49657-0
- Short code
- HIV NNRTI Susc Pnl Islt Genotyp
- Synonyms
- HIV NNRTI Susc Pnl Islt Genotyp
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- genotyping
- CPT
- 86701
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’re starting a new HIV treatment, experiencing treatment failures, or have concerns about resistance to specific medications. It helps ensure your treatment plan is effective and tailored to your virus’s genetic profile.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken to collect HIV genetic material. This sample is then analyzed using advanced laboratory techniques (like high-performance liquid chromatography or immunoassay) to detect mutations in the virus’s genes that could indicate resistance to certain drugs.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast or avoid certain medications for a short time. Always follow your provider’s instructions for best results.
What the Results Mean
Results show which specific mutations are present in your HIV virus. These mutations can indicate whether your virus is resistant to particular classes of antiretroviral drugs (e.g., protease inhibitors, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors). Your provider will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and treatment plan.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
HIV Genotype Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is critical for optimizing HIV treatment by identifying resistance early. It helps avoid ineffective medications, reduces the risk of treatment failure, and supports long-term viral suppression. Resistance testing is especially important if you’ve taken multiple medications or if your viral load isn’t controlled despite treatment.
Results typically take 1–2 weeks or longer, depending on the laboratory’s processing time. Your provider will contact you once results are available, so check in with them if you haven’t heard back within the expected timeline.
No, it’s important to continue taking your current medications as prescribed until your provider advises otherwise. Stopping medications abruptly can lead to viral rebound or treatment failure.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy