skip to main content

HIV — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateHIV MedicineHIVSCE Infectious Diseases

A 30-year-old woman from Ethiopia presents at 14 weeks gestation with a new diagnosis of HIV. CD4 is 550 cells/µL, viral load 15,000 copies/mL. HBsAg negative. She has wild-type virus on genotyping. What is the target viral load by the time of delivery to enable vaginal delivery?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — HIV viral load <50 copies/mL at 36 weeks gestation

BHIVA 2025 pregnancy guidelines recommend a target viral load of <50 copies/mL by 36 weeks gestation to enable planned vaginal delivery. If viral load is >400 copies/mL at 36 weeks, elective caesarean section at 38–39 weeks is recommended to reduce vertical transmission risk. Zidovudine infusion during delivery is recommended if viral load is >50 copies/mL near delivery.

Reference: BHIVA 2025 – Guidelines on the management of HIV in pregnancy and the postpartum period