HIV Genotypic Resistance Testing (Plasma or Serum)
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 plan for managing HIV by checking for drug resistance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49656-2
- Short code
- HIV PI gene mut Islt Genotyp
- Synonyms
- HIV PI gene mut Islt Genotyp
- Category
- chemistry
- 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 Matters for Your Health
HIV resistance testing is crucial if you’re starting new antiretroviral therapy (ART) or if your current treatment isn’t working as expected. By detecting mutations in the virus’s genetic code, doctors can tailor your medication to be more effective and reduce the risk of treatment failure.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll provide a blood sample (either plasma or serum) collected during a routine blood draw. No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results.
How the Results Are Used
Results identify specific mutations in the HIV virus’s genes that could make certain medications less effective. This information helps your doctor choose the most appropriate antiretroviral drugs to control your infection.
Common Scenarios for This Test
This test is typically ordered if you’re starting HIV treatment for the first time, if your current medications aren’t working, or if you experience side effects that suggest resistance. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in some cases.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
HIV resistance testing is essential for personalized treatment. Certain mutations can make HIV resistant to specific classes of antiretroviral drugs, such as protease inhibitors, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), or non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). Detecting these mutations early helps prevent treatment failure, which can lead to drug-resistant HIV that’s harder to treat and may require more aggressive or costly therapies.
Short name
HIV Genotype Test
Frequently asked questions
When would I need this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I stop taking my current HIV medications while waiting for results?
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