ABSTRACT
Objective : To evaluate the prediction of HIV-1 RNA viral load (Ampiclor) in log_copies per ml by each level of modified boosted-p24 antigen in log_ fg per ml. , Methods : 283 plasma samples were collected and blindly determined the HIV-1 RNA Amplicor Monitor, Roche as standard test with modified boosted p24 antigen assay. Likelihood ratio positive analyses of multiple levels of p24 were calculated as well as the post-test probability in predicting the amount of virus (log_copies/ ml). Results: Subject were between 18 to 73 years old with the range of virus 1.75 to 5.92 log-copies per ml. By the calculation of likelihood ratio positive and positive predictive value, it was demonstrated that modified boosted p24 antigen (Ag in log-fg per ml) might predict the viral load (VL in log-copies per ml) as follow. Ag 2.0-3.0 log-fg per ml corresponding to 2.0 or lower log-copies per ml VL Ag 3.0-3.5 log-fg per ml corresponding to 2.5 or lower log-copies per ml VL Ag 3.5-4.0 log-fg per ml corresponding to 3.5 or lower log-copies per ml VL Ag 4.0-over log-fg per ml corresponding to 4.5 or lower log-copies per ml VL Conclusions: In countries with limited financial resources, the modified p24 antigen may be clinically applied in antiretroviral management programmes, instead of the HIV-1 RNA Amplicor Monitor, Roche.