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HIV viral load (or 'HIV RNA'). Just Diagnosed. HIV viral load tests measure the amount of HIV in the blood. Lower levels are better than higher levels. The main goal of HIV drugs is to reduce viral load as much as possible for as long as possible; for most patients, the goal is to suppress HIV viral load to an undetectable level, meaning that the HIV RNA is below the detection limit of the test.
Untreated, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells (T cells) in the body. This damage to the immune system makes it harder and harder for the body to fight off infections and some other diseases. Opportunistic infections or cancers take advantage of a very weak immune system and signal that the person has AIDS. Learn more about the stages of HIV and how to know whether youâre infected. What Is HIV? HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is the virus that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, if not treated. Unlike some other viruses, the human body canât get rid of HIV completely, even with treatment.