Simultaneous determination of HIV antibodies, hepatitis C antibodies, and hepatitis B antigens in dried blood spots a feasibility study using a multi-analyte immunoassay

HIV in particular, as well as hepatitis B and C, present a burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Early detection of these diseases may prevent further infections and improve the outcome for patients. In particular, transmission of HIV from mother to child can be significantly reduced when preventive measures are taken before birth. We have developed and optimized a method for the simultaneous detection of HIV 1 and hepatitis B and C from dried blood specimens using the Luminex multi-analyte profiling technology (LabMap). Dried blood spots provide a convenient method for mailing, analysis and storage of samples. Specimens from known HIV-positive children (n=46) as well as hepatitis B- (n=8) and hepatitis C-positive patients (n=7) tested positive in our assay. Storage for up to 10 years did not interfere with the test in the case of HIV-positive patients. Results for five different antibodies and one antigen were obtained in approximately 80 seconds. Furthermore, antibody levels in infants of HIV-positive mothers were monitored over a period of 1 year. Antibodies were no longer detectable after 260-360 days, which compared well with results independently obtained by ELISA and Western blot analysis. We demonstrated the feasibility of the simultaneous detection of infectious diseases from dried blood. Our novel method also provides a convenient tool for monitoring children from HIV-positive mothers and for possible screening efforts.