Overview
Routine serologic screening of patients at risk for HIV-1 or HIV-2 infection usually begins with a HIV-1/-2 antigen and/or antibody screening test, Antibodies against HIV-1 and HIV-2 are usually not detectable until 6 to 12 weeks following exposure and are almost always detectable by 12 months. They may fall to undetectable levels (ie, seroreversion) in the terminal stage of AIDS when the patients immune system is severely depressed.HIV virus causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). EIA is a screening test for HIV infection with a sensitivity of >99.9%. As per NACO guidelines, all reactive samples are tested by three different methods prior to release of report.
What is Test
Routine serologic screening of patients at risk for HIV-1 or HIV-2 infection usually begins with a HIV-1/-2 antigen and/or antibody screening test, Antibodies against HIV-1 and HIV-2 are usually not detectable until 6 to 12 weeks following exposure and are almost always detectable by 12 months. They may fall to undetectable levels (ie, seroreversion) in the terminal stage of AIDS when the patient's immune system is severely depressed.HIV virus causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). EIA is a screening test for
HIV infection with a sensitivity of >99.9%. As per NACO guidelines, all reactive samples are tested by three different methods prior to release of the report.
What Is The Purpose
HIV tests aim to determine the presence of HIV infection by analyzing samples of blood. HIV testing can be performed on individuals who exhibit symptoms of HIV infection, as well as as part of a routine screening program or as a diagnostic test following potential HIV exposure.
When Profile Recommended
HIV testing is crucial for people who are sexually active, especially those who have multiple partners, as this viral infection is primarily an STD. It is advised to get tested for HIV for:
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Babies born to HIV-positive mothers
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Individuals getting treatment for any other STD
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Individuals who already have tuberculosis or hepatitis
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People going for unprotected sex with multiple partners
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Women who are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant
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Individuals who use shared needles to inject drugs
It is crucial to remember that not every HIV-positive person will experience early symptoms. However, the following symptoms may appear two to four weeks following HIV exposure:
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Chills
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Muscle aches
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Fever
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Night sweats
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Prolonged diarrhea
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Sore throat
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Rash on the torso
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Spotting on the skin or in the mouth
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Unexplained fatigue
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Swollen glands or lymph nodes
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Unexplained weight loss
The presence or absence of these symptoms does not indicate your HIV status; an HIV test is necessary to confirm a positive case. These symptoms are not unique to HIV. If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV, it is crucial that you speak with a medical professional.
Preparation
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Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the HIV Rapid Method Test.
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However, a duly filled consent form for HIV testing & pre-test counseling is mandatory before going for this testing.
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Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to an HIV Rapid Method Test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
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Drink adequate water before sample collection.
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Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.
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Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.
TestCost
The price of an HIV Rapid Method Test is ?500. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:
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Other tests advised along with HIV Rapid Method Test
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Offers or discounts
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Empanelment of the patient
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