The HTLV I and II Antibodies test is a blood test that detects antibodies to the human T-lymphotropic viruses type I and II (HTLV-I and HTLV-II). HTLV-I and HTLV-II are retroviruses that can infect human T- cells, a type of white blood cell that's an important part of the immune system.
HTLV-I is associated with various diseases, including HTLV-I-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), a chronic and progressive disease of the nervous system, and adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL), a rare and aggressive type of cancer of the T-cells. HTLV-II has been associated with a few cases of neurological disorders similar to HAM/TSP, but its pathogenic potential is much less certain than that of HTLV-I.
This test is typically used for screening purposes, especially for blood donors, as these viruses can be transmitted through blood transfusion, sharing needles, sexual contact, and from mother to child during birth or breastfeeding.
Test NameHTLV I and II Antibodies
Sample TypeBlood
Preparations RequiredNone
Report Time3 Days
What is the HTLV I and II Antibodies test?
The HTLV I and II Antibodies test is a blood test that detects antibodies to the human T-lymphotropic viruses type I and II. These are retroviruses that can infect human T-cells, and they are associated with certain diseases such as HTLV-I-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis and adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed to identify individuals infected with HTLV I or II, particularly in blood donors, as the virus can be transmitted through blood transfusion. It can also be used in clinical settings for patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of HTLV-associated diseases.
Home Sample Collection Process
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Book your convenient slot
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Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
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Reporting of the sample at lab
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Frequently Asked Questions
This test is performed using a sample of your blood. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
This test poses minimal risk. It involves a simple blood draw, and complications are rare, although you might experience minor bruising at the needle site.
No special preparations are needed for this test.
The turnaround time for this test is typically 2-3 days, but it can vary depending on the laboratory.
A positive result means that HTLV I or II antibodies have been detected in your blood, which indicates an infection with the virus.
No, this test requires a blood sample to be taken by a healthcare professional and needs to be analyzed in a laboratory.
If your test result is positive, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider for further advice. You may need additional testing to confirm the results and evaluate the potential implications.
A negative result means that no antibodies to HTLV I or II were detected in your blood. However, it does not completely rule out the possibility of infection, particularly if you've been recently exposed to the virus.
Many people with HTLV infection do not experience symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can vary greatly, but can include muscle weakness, motor disturbances, skin lesions, and lymph node swelling.
While there is currently no cure for HTLV I and II infections, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications.
HTLV I and II infections can be prevented by avoiding risk factors such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, or receiving unscreened blood transfusions.
HTLV I and II can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing needles, from mother to child during birth or breastfeeding, and through blood transfusion.
People who share needles, have unprotected sex, receive unscreened blood transfusions, or were born to a mother with HTLV infection are at higher risk.
HTLV I and II infections are not common in most parts of the world. However, certain areas, such as southwestern Japan, the Caribbean, and parts of South America, have higher rates of infection.
Yes, infection with HTLV I is associated with a type of cancer known as adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma.
As of now, there is no available vaccine to prevent HTLV I or II infection.
Yes, HTLV I and II are lifelong infections. There is currently no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
No, HTLV I and HIV are different viruses. Both are retroviruses and can be transmitted in similar ways, but they cause different diseases.
