?? VL lab test process time - wk 12 coming up

[IMstacie]

Does anyone know how long it takes to get the lab results for the VL test?  I use Quest labs in Los Angeles.  The reason I ask, i have an appt with doc January 30th, which is week 12 for me.  Can I get the lab work done on Tuesday before appt. and have the results by Friday?  Is it important to wait until wk 12 as opposed to wk 11?  I'm getting really nervous.  I am on riba/peg tx.  I didn't even know I was supposed to have a VL test in wk 4.  Am I supposed to be UND at wk 12?  What if I'm not?  I have Geno Type 1a & 2b.

[jmjm530]

You have to ask what test they're going to give you. Quest has many tests. You want a very sensitive Quantitative. "Heptimax" is a good choice. All your doc has to do is write "Heptimax" on the rx or Quest requisition form.

-- Jim

[IMstacie]

ok - done.  Thank you all so much!  I called the doctor, pushed my appt out, made an appt with the lab for week 12 test the day before my 13th shot.  I feel better now.

Now, how am I able to tell if my lab orders are for a Heptimax test?  Is it a test that has to be ordered by the DR or is it what the lab uses?

Again - thanks!

[jmjm530]

...An "<50" on part I means you are at least under 50 IU/ml. They only run part II if you are <50 (UND) on part I.

[jmjm530]

Have blood drawn for the week 12 test the day before your 13th shot and make your doc's appointment accordingly. Heptimax -- is that the test you take? -- can take up to two weeks for results to come in HOWEVER results for Part I (Heptimax is 2 parts) are usually ready in 3-4 days. Have your NP call for partial results although you may have to educate them that it's a two-part test.

[Bobby1952]

  Why don't you try to delay your DR's appointment by a week or 2.

[nygirl7]

Agree with Trinity above.  The 12 week test is a very important test and I would do that one 'right' by taking the test the day before your 13th shot to get the most accurate results. Best to do it correctly if possible.

My test results took five business days to get back.

As Trin said "hurry up and wait" is a lesson you get very good at while on treatment (and even afterwards waiting for those post tx PCRs to come back).  It never gets easier really....but you do get used to it.

[Trinity4]

I would wait until after the 12th injection for a PCR.  Preferably the day before 13th injection or the same day of 13th injection only before it is given.  That's why they call it a 12wk PCR.  Patience is a virtue when treating this disease.  Most of us learn how to hurry up and wait without stressing ourselves into the ground.  The end result can't be changed whether you stress about it or not.  Good luck with your results.
Trinity

[charm27]

I was told 8 working days- But by the time its put on my docs desk and read is another story. Hope you get it soon!! GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!

[copyman]

If you are undectable it only takes a few days but if they find virons in your blood they run a more in depth test that takes a week or more. Good luck

PS, just in case you don't have the results by friday ask the lab to have a copy of results sent directly to you.

[Debbie223]

When I get my vl test done I also use quest. Lets say I get it done on Thursday..I usually have my results by the middle of the following week. I have seen post from others where it can take a few weeks. Maybe it depends on the lab not sure. Tuesday and have them on Friday?? unlikely. Week 12 as opposed to week 11 I don't see that would make any difference.

Are you seeing Hep specialist?