Table 2.
Laboratory testing for people with HIV before and after initiation of initial antiretroviral therapy.
| Laboratory Test | Prior of Starting DTG+3TC | Follow-up Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Immunology | ||
| CD4 absolute count and % CD4/CD8 ratio CD8 and % (optional) |
Yes | 3–6 months a |
| Virology | ||
| Plasma HIV viral load | Yes | 3–6 months |
| HIV genotypic resistance testing and sub-type | Yes | In case of virolgical failure |
| Co-Infections | ||
| Hepatitis B serology b | Yes | Annual/if indicated c |
| Hepatitis C screening | No d | Annual/if indicated e |
| Sexually transmitted infections | No d | Annual/if indicated |
| Tuberculosis | No d | In case of exposure |
| Biochemistry | ||
| Basic chemistry | Yes | 6 months |
| ALT, AST, total bilirubin | Yes | 6 months |
| Complete blood count with differential | Yes | 3–12 months |
| Serum glucose and fasting lipids | Yes | Annual |
| Urinalysis | Yes | 6 months |
| Pregnancy test | Yes |
a After the first 2 years, if virologically suppressed and CD4 count >350 cells/μL, the frequency of monitoring could be annual. b If HBsAg, HBsAb, and HBcAb test results are negative, hepatitis B vaccine series should be administered. Consider performing an HBV viral load test for confirmation, to account for HBsAb loss. c If patient is nonimmune and does not have chronic HBV infection; d Not indicated, if performed at time of HIV-infection diagnosis. e Repeat HCV screening every 12 months for at-risk patients. ALT = alanine aminotransferase; cART = combined antiretroviral therapy; AST = aspartate aminotransferase; CD4 = CD4 T lymphocyte; HBcAb = hepatitis B core antibody; HBsAb = hepatitis B surface antibody; HBsAg = hepatitis B surface antigen; HBV = hepatitis B virus; HCV = hepatitis C virus.