Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

PCR may be performed on some specific samples on an investigational basis. The PCR technique allows amplification and identification of specific viral DNA sequences, and discrimination between HTLV- I and HTLV-II.

Radioimmunoprecipitation Assay (RIPA)

RIPA is performed only on selected samples on an investigational basis. The assay enhances detection of antibodies to gp68, the env precursor of HTLV-I/II. The following interpretations are applied to HTLV-I/II RIPA:

POSITIVE - gp68 is present (band intensity > 1+)

NEGATIVE - gp68 is absent

INDETERMINATE - gp68 is equivocal (band intensity < 1+)