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False-positive HIV-1 RNA detection after CAR-T cell therapy in a multiple myeloma patient: multi-assay comparison
Stefano Brusa1, Daniela D'Angelo2, Giuseppe D'Ambrosio1
1Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Abstract:
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies, employing lentiviral vectors, may cause false-positive HIV-1 RNA results due to amplification of vector-derived sequences. We describe a case of a patient with multiple myeloma undergoing CAR-T therapy tested with two dual-target assays testing positive at low copies for HIV-1 RNA. A single-target assay consistently tested negative. HIV serological tests remained non-reactive. This case highlights the importance of assay target design in interpreting HIV RNA results after CAR-T therapy and supports the importance of serological tests and alternative methods to avoid misdiagnosis.
Insights
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy can cause false-positive HIV-1 RNA tests. Careful assay selection and HIV serological tests are crucial to avoid misdiagnosis in patients undergoing CAR-T treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Immunotherapy
Background:
- Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies utilize lentiviral vectors for genetic modification.
- Lentiviral vectors used in CAR-T therapy share sequence homology with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1).
- This homology can potentially lead to false-positive results in HIV-1 RNA detection assays.
