HIV Wasting:
Initial Patient Evaluation
Laboratory Tests
• Plasma HIV RNA
• CD4 cell count
• Serum testosterone (free and total)
• Serum albumin
• Thyroid function tests


Treatment Guidelines for HIV-Associated Wasting, Consensus Development Panel Meeting, New York, NY; July 26, 2000.



• As part of the initial patient evaluation, the clinician should also obtain a number of laboratory tests.1

• These include plasma HIV RNA and CD4 cell count to determine the patient’s viral load and immunologic status.

• Serum testosterone levels should also be obtained. If possible, both free and total levels can be calculated.

• Serum albumin and thyroid function tests may also be appropriate, if clinically warranted.

Reference:

1. Treatment Guidelines for HIV-Associated Wasting, Consensus Development Panel Meeting, New York, NY; July 26, 2000.