The Levels of Viral Load in Blood and Rectal Secretions Are Related

The levels of viral load in blood and rectal secretions are related, a study conducted in men who have sex with men (MSM) has shown.

Men with a blood viral load above 1000 copies/ml were much more likely to have detectable virus in their rectal secretions.

The researchers believe their findings have important implications for the use of HIV treatment as prevention.

Studies conducted in largely heterosexual populations have shown that effective HIV treatment reduces the risk of sexual transmission by around 96%.

On the basis of their findings, the US researchers think that effective treatment will also significantly reduce the risk of transmission for MSM.

The study involved 80 men, and approximately three-quarters were taking HIV treatment. About two-thirds had an undetectable viral load in their blood.

Viral load was also monitored in rectal secretions. Overall, 38% of men had detectable virus in their rectal secretions at least once.

Levels of HIV in the blood and rectum were closely related. A blood viral load above 1000 copies/ml indicated an increased likelihood of having detectable rectal viral load.

Bacterial sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea did not increase viral load in the rectum.

The researchers conclude: “our findings indicate that a low plasma HIV viral load is associated with a low HIV load in rectal secretions…these findings support the use of HIV treatment as an effective means of reducing HIV transmission among MSM in the United States by reducing the amount of virus shed in body sites where transmission occurs.”

The Friends of AIDS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.

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