Reporting the results of human immunodeficiency virus testing

Area of Science:

• Medical Laboratory Science
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Accurate laboratory reporting is critical for diagnosing and managing infectious diseases.
• Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) testing requires precise interpretation and clear reporting to avoid patient and physician confusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify potential sources of errors in laboratory reports for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) testing.
• To assess the clarity and accuracy of HIV-1 test result reporting to healthcare providers.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study utilized blind proficiency testing with three distinct serum samples (negative, positive, and false-positive).
• Serum samples were sent to laboratories as routine patient specimens for HIV-1 antibody testing.
• Laboratory reports were analyzed for accuracy, clarity, and correct interpretation of results.

Main Results:

• Half of the laboratories reported positive HIV-1 antibody samples as "indeterminate".
• One laboratory issued a final positive report without confirmatory testing.
• Reports often contained obscured results and incorrect information, including outdated terminology (HTLV-III) and misleading interpretations of test significance.

Conclusions:

• Significant discrepancies and potential for misinterpretation exist in HIV-1 laboratory reporting.
• Errors in reporting can obscure actual results and confuse physicians regarding HIV-1 exposure and diagnosis.
• Improved standardization and clarity in HIV-1 testing reports are necessary to ensure accurate patient management.