Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus 1 and 2 (HTLV-1/HTLV-2) Antibodies Blood Test

This test looks for antibodies that the body develops in response to infection with the Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV). HTLV infects white blood cells, which are important to the body’s immune system.  HTLV infection can be responsible for developing several conditions, including Leukemia, Lymphoma, and nervous system disorders. The HTLV 1&2 Abs test detects and differentiates both type 1 and type 2 HTLV infections.

Risk factors for HTLV infection include:

• Having multiple sexual partners
• Being an IV drug user
• Having a history of blood transfusions
• Living in or having a sexual partner from parts of the world where HTLV is prevalent such as Southwestern Japan, parts of Africa, the Caribbean, and the Southeastern U.S.