Use of polymerase chain reaction in HIV monitoring: The polymerase chain reaction can be used not only to detect the presence of viral sequences but also to provide a semiquantitative or a precise evaluation of the number of copies of genome present. Integral to the development of accurate and reproducible assays have been critical advances in polymerase chain reaction technology. In addition, standardization of protocols and reagents has proved invaluable. The HIV life cycle permits both DNA and RNA to be targeted. Although early cross-sectional studies provided little insight into disease progression, recent longitudinal studies have provided valuable information on HIV infection.
Conclusion: A rapid and simple quantitative assay for HIV RNA in plasma or sera has been developed that should prove valuable in determining the natural history of infection, dissecting viral pathogenesis and monitoring the efficacy of therapeutic intervention.