COMPARISON OF HIV-1 DNA PCR RESULTS OBTAINED FROM FRESH AND STORED DRIED BLOOD SPOTS OF HIV-1 EXPOSED INFANTS

Abstract

Purpose of the study: We compared the results of fresh dried blood spot (DBS) collected on filter paper (Whatman 903) and stored at room temperature for six months and one year. Basic Procedures:  HIV testing was done using Roche Amplicor HIV-1 DNA Kit. The Optical Density (OD) values of fresh samples, stored samples at six months and one year were compared.  Main Findings: Thirty-two of 400 DBS tested HIV positive. There was no significant difference between OD values of fresh DBS and stored DBS at six months and one year.  Principal Conclusions: HIV-1 DNA was stable for one year on filter paper at room temperature