HIV Test. Prices, Reviews, Ratings
General Information
Unfortunately, HIV is a widespread virus infecting countless people daily. A blood test for HIV should be conducted to alleviate concerns, protect oneself and loved ones, and, if infected, begin timely treatment. Several methods exist to test for HIV infection: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR is considered the most reliable and accurate method.
Procedure Process
Preparation
Before taking an HIV blood test, patients should abstain from eating for at least 8 hours. The procedure must be performed on an empty stomach.
HIV Blood Test Process
Conducting an HIV blood test is a quick and straightforward procedure. A doctor draws a small amount of blood from a vein of a suspected carrier. Two specific tests are then performed—ELISA followed by immunoblotting. Typically, specialists test blood not for the HIV virus itself but to detect antibodies synthesized by the immune system.
Before the HIV blood test, the doctor must explain the testing method and the meaning of the results to the patient.
Indications
Blood tests for HIV are necessary in the following cases:
- Following unprotected sexual contact with a stranger.
- If your sexual partner has contacts with others or is HIV-positive.
- After any type of contact with the blood of an HIV-infected person.
- In cases of sudden weight loss following piercing or tattooing.
- With repeated use of needles or syringes.
- Upon detecting a sexually transmitted infection.
- If a sexual partner has been at risk of infection.
Additionally, HIV blood tests are recommended for women planning pregnancy and those preparing for surgery or hospitalization.
Test Interpretation
During testing, two specific tests—ELISA and immunoblot—are conducted. Results from the first test are available by evening if taken in the morning, while the second test results take 5–7 days. Specialists interpret the results as follows: if both tests are positive, antibodies to HIV are present in the patient’s body. If the result is negative or indeterminate, no HIV antibodies are detected. Notably, ELISA often yields false positives, so it is not considered definitive.
Prices and Clinics
HIV blood tests are performed by experienced and qualified venereologists. The test is available in many modern medical clinics. Using the online portal “”, you can check procedure costs and book an appointment.
Схожі новини:
