What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're already living with HIV-1 and are virologically suppressed on treatment, but you and your care team are considering a change to your antiretroviral regimen. It looks at the virus's genetic material to see whether it carries mutations that could make certain medications less effective. It's especially useful when older viral RNA resistance testing wasn't done or is no longer available, so a new treatment plan can be built on solid information.

What's included in this test?

This panel combines two types of analysis: a resistance test that checks the virus's protease, reverse transcriptase, and integrase genes for mutations, and a tropism test that determines which type of receptor the virus uses to enter cells. Together, these results help identify which antiretroviral drug classes are likely to work well and whether CCR5-blocking medications are an option. Because it uses ultra-deep sequencing of proviral DNA, it can pick up resistance information even when a recent viral load test isn't available.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with an explanation of what each finding means, including which resistance mutations (if any) were detected and whether your virus is suited to CCR5-antagonist medications like maraviroc. The report will point out any specific drug classes that may be affected, which is useful information to bring into any conversation about adjusting your regimen. You can download a standard lab report directly from your account, and if you test again in the future, the trends feature lets you compare results side by side over time.

How can I naturally support my immune system alongside treatment?

While no natural remedy replaces antiretroviral therapy, supporting your body can help your overall health while managing HIV. Eating a balanced diet, getting consistent sleep, staying physically active, and managing stress all help keep your immune system functioning well. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol also reduces extra strain on your immune system and liver, which is especially helpful if you're on multiple medications.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. Because this test uses detailed next-generation sequencing, it takes a bit longer than a standard blood test, so plan for about a week's turnaround. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are available in your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is best suited for people already diagnosed with HIV-1 who are virologically suppressed but need more information before switching medications. It's particularly helpful if your prior resistance testing history is incomplete or unavailable, since standard viral load-based resistance tests require detectable virus to work. If you and your care team are weighing a regimen change, this test fills an important information gap.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Since this test is used for people who are already virologically suppressed, it's not about new symptoms — it's about treatment planning. You might need it if your current regimen isn't well tolerated, if side effects are a concern, or if there's a reason to consider adding or switching to a drug like maraviroc. It's a proactive planning tool rather than a symptom-driven test.

What does it mean if resistance mutations are found?

Finding a resistance mutation means the virus has changed in a way that could make certain medications less effective against it. This doesn't mean treatment has failed overall — it simply gives specific information about which drug classes to avoid or favor in a new regimen. Your report will break down which genes and drug classes are affected so this can be factored into any regimen changes.

What does the tropism result mean?

The tropism result tells you which "door" the virus uses to get into your cells — either the CCR5 receptor, the CXCR4 receptor, or both. If your virus only uses CCR5, medications like maraviroc that block that receptor may be a treatment option. If the virus uses CXCR4 or both receptor types, CCR5-blocking drugs typically won't be effective.

How often should I retest?

This isn't a routine test you'd repeat on a regular schedule — it's typically used at specific decision points, such as before a regimen change or when resistance history is unclear. If your treatment plan changes or you experience virologic issues in the future, retesting at that time can provide updated information. Talk through timing with whoever manages your ongoing HIV care based on your individual treatment history.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

HIV-1 Resistance & Tropism Test - Regimen Planning

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]