HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test

Also known as HIV1&2 Ab/Ag Duo

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

A duly filled Consent form for HIV testing & Pre-test counselling (Annexure - CR/01) is mandatory.

Understanding HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test

What is HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test?

HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test is an advanced screening test for Human immunodeficiency virus (1 & 2) in human blood. It also helps confirm the presence of HIV in donated blood or plasma. HIV is transmitted through unsafe sexual contact, exposure to the blood or body fluids (like semen) of HIV-infected individuals, from an infected mother to an unborn baby, or through sharing of contaminated needles. The HIV antigen/antibody test simultaneously detects HIV p24 antigen and antibodies associated with HIV-1 and/or HIV-2 virus and can usually detect HIV infection 18 to 45 days after the person has been exposed to the virus. Use of condoms, avoiding the use of shared needles, and regular screening are some of the ways to prevent an HIV infection.

What is HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test used for?

To screen for and diagnose HIV infection
If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant
If you are diagnosed with Hepatitis B, C, Tuberculosis, or any other sexually transmitted disease
Annual screening is advised for those who are at high risk for HIV infection like having an HIV positive sex partner, multiple sexual partners, homosexual people, and sharing needles
To differentiate HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies in specimens of serum that show reactive results with third and fourth generation HIV serologic assays

Interpreting HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test results

Interpretations

A negative HIV antibody test usually indicates that a person does not have HIV infection. However, it only means that there is no evidence of disease at the time of the test.
If someone tests positive on both the initial screening and supplemental testing, it is considered as a definite case of infection with HIV.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test

Frequently Asked Questions about HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test

Q. What are the symptoms of HIV infection?

The symptoms of HIV infection are similar to that of influenza and other viral infections such as fever, sore throat, muscle, and joint pain. It is possible that the symptoms may go unidentified for years. In order to avoid such a condition, the best way is to get screened for HIV infections.

Q. Is there any special preparation required for the test?

No, there is no special preparation required for the test.

Q. Which screening tests are advised by the doctor for patients under the risk of HIV?

There are different types of tests available for HIV testing: Combination HIV antibody and HIV antigen test, HIV antibody testing, and p24 antigen testing

Q. Is HIV infection curable?

HIV infection is not curable but if diagnosed early, proper treatment can be started. HIV infection is treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART). This therapy helps in reducing the levels of virus in the body which in turn will improve the patient’s health.

Q. How is the blood sample taken?

The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site from where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is then followed by inserting a small needle which has a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once the sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the needle is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the withdrawal of blood sample procedure?

As such there is no risk but in few cases, bruising, bleeding, and infection at the puncture site can be seen. In very few cases, there can be swelling of the vein after the blood is withdrawn.

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