Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus type II (HTLV-II) infection is a retroviral infection that targets T-cells, a type of white blood cell critical to immune function. It is caused by the HTLV-II retrovirus, typically transmitted through blood exposure, intravenous drug use, sexual contact, or from mother to child during birth or breastfeeding. The Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus I, II Antibodies Test with Confirmation is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects specific antibodies produced in response to HTLV-II infection.
3303 reviews
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
HTLV-II infection is caused by the Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus type II, a retrovirus that infects and replicates within T-lymphocytes, which are essential white blood cells for immune system function. The virus is transmitted primarily through blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing needles during intravenous drug use, blood transfusions (particularly those received before 1992 when screening began), sexual contact, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth or breastfeeding. Once infected, the virus integrates into the host DNA and remains in the body for life, though most people remain asymptomatic carriers.
The Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus I, II Antibodies Test with Confirmation is the most important test for HTLV-II infection because it detects specific antibodies your immune system produces in response to the virus. This comprehensive blood test uses a two-step process: an initial screening test (typically ELISA) followed by confirmatory testing (such as Western blot) to ensure accuracy and eliminate false positives. The test identifies antibodies to both HTLV-I and HTLV-II, with additional testing performed to differentiate between the two virus types when antibodies are detected. This approach is essential because HTLV-II infection is lifelong and often asymptomatic, making antibody detection the gold standard for diagnosis.
You should get tested if you have a history of intravenous drug use with shared needles, received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, have a sexual partner known to be infected with HTLV-II, or were born to a mother with HTLV infection. Testing is also recommended if you have unexplained blood disorders, particularly unusual white blood cell abnormalities, or if you are pregnant and have risk factors, as the virus can be transmitted to your baby. Additionally, consider testing if you are from or have had sexual contact with someone from areas where HTLV is more common, including certain regions of the Americas where intravenous drug use is prevalent.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
What this means
Your test came back negative, meaning no HTLV-I or HTLV-II antibodies were detected in your blood. This is the expected and healthy result, indicating you have not been infected with human T-lymphotropic virus.
Recommended actions
Continue practicing safe sex with barrier protection
Never share needles or drug equipment if you use injection medications
Consider periodic retesting if you remain at higher risk for exposure
Maintain open communication with sexual partners about sexual health
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
3303 reviews
3303 reviews
Sample results
Your 24/7 Personal Lab Guide
Quick questions:
