The virological consequences of low-level viraemia

Abstract

With highly active antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV can achieve and maintain viral suppression below a detectable level, preventing transmission of HIV and AIDS-related mortality.1,2 However, persistent low-level viraemia (usually defined as plasma HIV-RNA between 50 copies per mL to below the threshold for virological failure) occurs among some people living with HIV receiving ART.3–5 Despite its occurrence, the clinical significance and management of low-level viraemia remains unclear,3,5,6 particularly with dolutegravir-based ART regimen.