best VL test and cost

[Gary906]

Could someone give me an opinion as to what the most sensitive/ best VL test there is and what the cost is in case my health care provider will not pay for such a specialized VL test. I am und 12 weeks using Quantitation method BDNA but that test has a lower limit of 615. I think something more sensitive is needed and will talk to my gastro when I have my facts straight. Thanks, Gary

[Cheesegrater]

Look up Taqman and/or TMA for starters.

[frijole]

I used LabCorp and their most sensitive test is the Quanta Sure which is sensitive down to 2 IU/mL.  I had great insurance, and I don't have any of my bills handy but I think the actual cost was about $650-$750.  The 615 test is quite antiquated.  It is what the Veterans Administration uses for vet treating.

The Heptimax is Quest Lab's sensitive test -- it goes down to 5 IU/mL but I am not sure how much that runs.

Believe me, I am one who believes in sensitive testing.  I had 40 IU/mL at week 12.  My doctor thaought that was just peachy -- being a 4 log drop -- but it was not!  I opted to extend treatment based on the data, but only extended so that I had 36 weeks clear by sensitive testing ( for a total of 56 weeks).  I relapsed and feel very strongly that I would have probably cleared had I gone the complete 72 weeks.

So, it may be worth it to pay for your own testing!

Frijole