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 an HIV Rapid Method?
An HIV Rapid Test is a rapid diagnostic test used to check for the presence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) antibodies or antigens in the body. Rapid HIV tests are also referred to by the same name and give results within a short period of time, usually 15-30 minutes. HIV is the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and attacks the immune system.
A doctor would recommend an HIV Rapid Test in Bhilwara if the person has had exposure to HIV through high-risk behavior, is showing symptoms of acute HIV infection, or as a routine test, especially in pregnant women.
HIV Rapid Method Parameters
The HIV Rapid Method primarily checks for two important parameters, depending on the specific test type:
- HIV Antibodies: These are proteins that are produced by the immune system in reaction to an HIV infection. Most rapid tests look for these antibodies. A positive test result means that the antibodies are present, which is an indication of an HIV infection.
- HIV Antigens (e.g., p24 antigen): There are rapid tests that are referred to as “fourth-generation” tests. These tests are capable of detecting the p24 antigen, which is a central protein of the HIV virus itself. The detection of antigens enables the early detection of the infection, which may occur before the antibodies are fully developed.
The test results are used by doctors to offer initial screening and advice. Positive results must be followed up by further testing to confirm whether the results are accurate, as there is a possibility of false positives.
Symptoms That May Need for Test
An HIV rapid test is usually recommended in the following situations or when the following signs are noticed:
- Unprotected sex with an HIV status unknown partner.
- Sharing drug injection needles or syringes
- When a person is diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease..
- During pregnancy as part of antenatal care.
- When there are symptoms of acute retroviral syndrome.
- Recent needle stick injury, sexual assault.
- People who come for routine health checks for HIV prevention.
- When there is unexplained persistent weakness, loss of weight, or frequent infections.
Even without clear symptoms, an HIV test is important for anyone at risk, as many people can be asymptomatic for years.
Benefits of HIV Rapid Method in Bhilwara
There are many advantages of using the HIV Rapid Test Method in the implementation of an effective HIV prevention and control program.
- Results can be obtained within 10-20 minutes
- Pre- and post-test counseling can be conducted immediately
- Early diagnosis and referral to care and treatment can be done immediately
- Easy to conduct with minimal training and no specialized equipment required
- Increases accessibility to testing in diverse settings (clinics, mobile units, community outreach)
- Loss to follow-up of those with initial positive results can be eliminated
- Prevention of mother-to-child transmission programs can be supported
- Multiple sample types can be used (blood, oral fluid)
Preparation for HIV Rapid Method in Bhilwara
There is no special fasting or preparation needed for an HIV Rapid Method test. There is no need to fast, but it is important to tell the healthcare provider about any possible exposures that may have happened recently. It is also important to be prepared emotionally for the test results. Pre-test counseling is often provided and can be very helpful. It is also important to be well-rested and available for post-test counseling if it is needed, as good labs follow standard protocols for confidential test results.
Normal Range of the HIV Rapid Method
HIV Rapid Method results are typically interpreted as "Non-Reactive" or "Reactive.”
| Result |
Interpretation |
| Non-Reactive |
There was no detection of HIV antibodies or antigens at the time of the test. This is usually an indication that the individual is not infected with the HIV virus. However, if there was recent exposure, a subsequent test should be done after the window period. |
| Reactive |
There was a detection of HIV antibodies or antigens. This is a preliminary positive test and not an indication of an HIV infection. A confirmatory test, such as a Western blot or molecular test, should be done to confirm the infection. |
A reactive test result must be confirmed immediately and post-test counseling performed. Physicians are always prepared to discuss the results, along with possible exposure and risk factors, prior to any diagnosis or treatment plan being made.
What is the HIV Rapid Method Test Price in Bhilwara?
The price of a HIV Rapid Method Test in Bhilwara is Rs. 350, though it may vary depending on:
- Additional tests
- Offers/discounts
- Hospital/lab empanelment
Booking your HIV Rapid Method Test in Bhilwara with Dr. B. Lal Clinical Lab ensures fair pricing, accurate results, and convenient home sample collection
How to Book HIV Rapid Method Test in Bhilwara
1. Effortless Booking
Book your HIV Rapid Method Test through our mobile app or website in just a few steps.
2. Sample Collection
Choose home collection or visit our lab. Our trained phlebotomists ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
3. Sample Processing
Samples are transported under controlled temperature and tested through 151+ quality checkpoints.
4. Report & Support
Receive your report digitally, reviewed by expert pathologists. Our team helps you understand your results.
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