The collection of dried blood spots (DBS) on filter
paper provides a powerful approach for the development of large-
scale, population-based screening programs. DBS methods are
particularly valuable in developing countries and isolated rural
regions where resources are limited. Large numbers of field
specimens can be economically collected and shipped to
centralized reference laboratories for genetic and (or)
serological analysis. Alternatively, the dried blood can be
stored and used as an archival resource to rapidly establish the
frequency and distribution of newly recognized mutations, confirm
patient identity or track the origins and emergence of newly
identified pathogens. In this report, we describe how PCR-based
technologies are beginning to interface with international
screening programmes for the diagnosis and genetic
characterization of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1).
In particular, we review recent progress using DBS specimens to
resolve the HIV-1 infection status of neonates, monitor the
genetic evolution of HIV-1 during early infancy and establish a
sentinel surveillance system for the systematic monitoring of
HIV-1 genetic variation in Asia.
