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  • Title: Dried blood spots versus plasma for the quantification of HIV-1 RNA using the manual (PCR-ELISA) amplicor monitor HIV-1 version 1.5 assay in Yaounde, Cameroon.
    Author: Ikomey GM, Atashili J, Okomo-Assoumou MC, Mesembe M, Ndumbe PM.
    Journal: J Int Assoc Physicians AIDS Care (Chic); 2009; 8(3):181-4. PubMed ID: 19357423.
    Abstract:
    OBJECTIVES: Considering the recent accrued need for viral load quantification in resource-limited settings, this study evaluated the use of dried blood spots (DBS) compared to plasma as a means of sample collection and storage for HIV-1 RNA quantification using a non-automated assay. METHODS: Venous blood was collected from 60 consenting HIV-1-positive patients, plasma separated within 4 hours, and stored at -20 degrees C. Venous blood, 50 microL, was blotted on 4 designated areas of Whatman filter paper and air-dried at room temperature for 2 hours. RESULTS: There was a strong statistically significant correlation between HIV-1 RNA viral load using plasma and DBS (r = .955, P < .001). On average plasma viral loads were only slightly higher than DBS viral loads (mean difference: 0.06 log(10) copies/mL). CONCLUSION: Even when using an entirely manual HIV-quantification assay, DBS may provide a reliable, cost-effective method for sample collection and storage for HIV-1 RNA quantification in resource-limited settings.
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