How is the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART) primarily evaluated?

The effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is primarily evaluated through viral load testing. This method measures the amount of HIV RNA present in a person's blood, providing crucial insights into how well the ART is working. A successful ART regimen is typically indicated by a significant reduction in viral load, often reaching an undetectable level, which means that the virus is suppressed to a point where it cannot be transmitted and shows minimal impact on the immune system.

Viral load testing is fundamental in monitoring treatment adherence and making necessary adjustments to therapy plans. By focusing on the actual replication of the virus, this approach offers a clear picture of how effectively the ART is controlling HIV within the body. Other methods, such as enzyme immunoassay, rapid HIV antibody testing, and immunofluorescence assay, serve different purposes, such as initial diagnosis or detecting antibodies, but they do not provide direct information on the efficacy of ART in controlling viral replication.