Some tests give a straightforward result, such as the presence of an infection. But others are looked at in combination with aspects of your health and lifestyle.

Many blood tests have a ‘normal’ or ‘standard’ value or range of results. It’s important to remember that ‘normal’ can vary depending on a range of factors, including age, weight, gender, and test method. If your test result is outside the normal range, it may only mean that it would be a good idea to investigate further.

Your doctor will always look at your results based on you as an individual when deciding what to do next. Sometimes that might simply be to repeat the test, or watch and wait for any further change. 

There are two key blood tests that monitor how HIV is affecting you.

Your CD4 cell count gives an indication of the health of your immune system.

Your viral load measures how much HIV there is in your blood.

Looking at the results of these tests will inform important decisions such as when to start HIV treatment and to monitor how well your drugs are working.