This test detects antibodies to human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV)-I, a retrovirus associated with adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) and demyelinating neurologic disorders. The presence of HTLV-I antibodies in a person with no symptoms excludes that person from donating blood; however, this finding does not mean that leukemia or a neurologic disorder exists or will develop. Specimens with a positive test result by EIA are referred for Western blot. The results of Western blot are for investigational use only at the time of this printing.
Collect a 7-mL blood serum sample in a red-topped tube. Observe standard precautions.
Label the specimen with the patient’s name, date, and test(s) ordered and place the specimen in a biohazard bag for transport to the laboratory.
Positive results (antibodies to HTLV-I) occur in the presence of HTLV-I infection. Infection transmitted to recipients of HTLV-I–infected blood is well documented.
The presence of antibodies to HTLV-I bears no relation to the presence of antibodies to HIV-1; its presence does not put a person at risk for HIV/AIDS, but they often occur concurrently because of similar risk factors.
HTLV-I is endemic to the Caribbean, southeastern Japan, and some areas of Africa.
In the United States, HTLV-I has been detected in persons with ATL, IV drug users, and healthy persons, as well as in donated blood products. Transmission can also take place through ingestion of breast milk, sexual contact, and sharing of contaminated IV drug paraphernalia.
Pretest Patient Care
Assess patient’s knowledge about test. Explain test purpose and procedure.
Follow guidelines in Chapter 1 for safe, effective, informed pretest care.
Posttest Patient Care
Review test results; report and record findings. Modify the nursing care plan as needed. Counsel the patient regarding abnormal findings; explain the need for possible follow-up testing and treatment. See Interpreting Results of Immunologic Tests.
Follow guidelines in Chapter 1 for safe, effective, informed posttest care.