There is widespread concern amongst laboratory workers over the risks of exposure to human T cell lymphotrophic virus III [HTLV III] and the possibility of the subsequent development of the acquired immune deficiency syndrome [AIDS]. HTLV III is thermolabile and is completely inactivated by heating at 56°C for 30 min.1 We have studied the effect that such heating would have on analyses performed routinely in our laboratory.
References
1.
SpireBDormontDBarre-SinoussiF, Inactivation of lymphadenopathy-associated virus by heat, gamma rays, and ultraviolet light. Lancet.1985; 1: 188–9.
2.
TrinderP. Determination of glucose in blood using glucose oxidase with an alternative oxygen acceptor. Ann Clin BioChem.1969; 6: 24–5.
