Genotyping of HIV to test for nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (nRTI) or non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) resistance mutations from dried blood spots (DBS)

Drug resistance testing is recommended among persons initiating combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) and in maintaining a successful cART regimen. DBS allow for ease of collection of specimens for drug resistance testing in a variety of settings both domestically and internationally.

DBS should be dried overnight (>4 hours) before being stored. Each individual DBS card should be stored in a firmly zipped, air-impermeable bag (ex. Ziploc) with one desiccant. DBS can be stored and shipped at room temperature if sent within two weeks of collection. For long term storage, the ideal temperature would be in the freezer at -20/-80^oC, although samples stored in the refrigerator at 4^oC/Room Temperature may be accepted. Contact the Persaud lab for further details.