HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test
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?
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To screen for and diagnose HIV infection
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If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant
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If you are diagnosed with Hepatitis B, C, Tuberculosis, or any other sexually transmitted disease
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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
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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?
Q. Is there any special preparation required for the test?
Q. Which screening tests are advised by the doctor for patients under the risk of HIV?
Q. Is HIV infection curable?
Q. How is the blood sample taken?
Q. Is there any risk associated with the withdrawal of blood sample procedure?
Other tests
