HIV virus A prototype economical HIV monitoring test has been designed by a team of scientists. This test is believed to have been designed for use in remote places. This technique may seemingly inform the respective patients within 30 minutes time, in case of a requirement for antiretroviral treatment. The prototype monitoring test, CD4, was jointly developed by scientists from the Burnet Institute, Australia; Rush University Medical Centre, Chicago and Duke University, North Carolina.

Allegedly the test may provide the required information without the need for any laboratory equipment. The design of the CD4 test is stated to be akin to that of a home pregnancy test. This notably requires a finger-prick blood sample which may be enough to gauge the level of CD4+ T-cells in the blood of that respective individual.

“I am very proud to announce the Burnet Institute’s creation of the CD4 rapid test that has the potential for such a hugely positive impact on people with living with HIV across the world,” says Director and CEO of the Burnet Institute, Professor Brendan Crabb. “Today the Burnet Institute unveils its new logo that symbolizes our focus on global health. The CD4 test, created specifically for use in the field is an excellent example of our unique approach; combining innovative medical research with practical public health action.”

Seemingly, CD4+ T-cells are stated to be very crucial for the immune system’s effective functioning. During HIV infection, these cells are presumed to get damaged and eradicated. Therefore a decrease in this number of cells may make an individual susceptible to HIV. Apparently, health-care professionals usually rely on this count when determining the use of antiretroviral treatment. The novel CD4 test is stated to have the ability of informing within 30 minutes itself, if the patient may need to begin this therapy or not.

This test is believed to have completed the first phase of trials. However it will evidently even undergo further tests to verify its ability to provide accurate and reliable information.