Longitudinal HIV-1 RNA levels in a cohort of homosexual men

Long-term, steady virus levels in the blood of HIV-infected people appears to be uncommon. Researchers analyzed viral loads of 111 HIV-positive men from 1982 to 1992. HIV virus levels increased either gradually or abruptly throughout the infection in 59% of patients. HIV patients who had survived many years with the disease had more stable viral levels during the first four years of infection. Analysis of the pattern of viral load progression can be useful in predicting HIV progression.