Laboratory methods for diagnosing and monitoring HIV infection

The authors provide a brief review of laboratory methods used to diagnose infection, monitor HIV disease progression, and monitor response to treatment in the HIV-infected person. Included are descriptions of the characteristics of the HIV virus, and the immune damage that results from HIV infection. The authors describe the antibody tests, tests of the virus, "surrogate markers" of disease progression, and immune parameters. Nurses' understanding of these tests will facilitate effective patient monitoring and education.