HIV 4th Generation Blood Test

HIV 4th Generation Blood Test

STD Testing

The HIV 4th Generation Blood Test is an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) that can detect HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections, including acute infections, as early as 14 days after exposure. It identifies the p24 antigen indicative of acute HIV-1 infection and tests for antibodies for both HIV types. Key Features: Early Detection: Capable of identifying infections before seroconversion. High Accuracy: Over 99.7% sensitivity and 99.3% specificity, effectively detecting over 80% of acute infections. Follow-Up Testing: Positive results prompt additional testing to confirm the infection type. Recommendations: Screening is advised for all pregnant women, individuals aged 15 to 65 in areas with an HIV prevalence over 0.1%, and high-risk individuals considering PrEP therapy. Early diagnosis is crucial to reduce transmission and ensure timely treatment options.

$137.00
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Test Overview:

  • Name: HIV 4th Generation Blood Test (HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation, with Reflexes)
  • Methodology: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
  • Sample Type: Blood sample

Purpose:

  • To diagnose HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections, including acute infections.
  • To differentiate between HIV-1 and HIV-2.

Detection Capabilities:

  • Acute HIV-1 Infection: Detects p24 antigen, allowing for earlier diagnosis than previous tests, as it can identify infections as early as 14 days post-exposure.
  • Post-Seroconversion: Detects antibodies for HIV-1 and HIV-2.

Testing Process:

  1. Initial Testing:
    • Detects both HIV antigens and antibodies.
    • If positive, a follow-up antibody-based test is performed (at an additional charge) to confirm the infection type.
    • If the antibody test is negative but the initial test is positive, the specimen is reflex-tested for HIV-1 RNA (at an additional charge) to identify acute infections.

Clinical Guidelines:

  • Recommendations:
    • The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends HIV screening for:
      • All pregnant women.
      • Individuals aged 15 to 65 in regions with HIV prevalence >0.1%.
      • High-risk individuals considering pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

Importance of Early Diagnosis:

  • Approximately 40% of new HIV infections are transmitted by individuals unaware of their HIV status.
  • Early detection helps reduce transmission rates and enables timely access to treatment options.

Performance Metrics:

  • Sensitivity: >99.7%
  • Specificity: >99.3%
  • Effectively identifies most acute infections, reducing the need for nucleic acid testing.

Who Can Be Tested:

  • Suitable for adults, including pregnant women, and children aged 2 years and older. 
Why would I need the HIV 4th Generation Blood Test?
This test is recommended for several reasons: Routine screening: Recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple partners who engage in unprotected sex or who use intravenous drugs. Symptom evaluation: If you experience symptoms associated with acute HIV infection (e.g., fever, sore throat, rash, or swollen lymph nodes), this test can help determine if HIV is the cause. Partner exposure: If your partner has tested positive for HIV, this test can help determine your status. Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals are often tested for HIV to prevent transmission to the baby. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) monitoring: If you have taken PEP after potential exposure, this test can help confirm whether or not you were infected. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) monitoring: For individuals on PrEP, regular testing is required to confirm HIV-negative status.
What do the results of the HIV 4th Generation Blood Test indicate?
Negative result: No HIV p24 antigen or antibodies were detected, suggesting you do not currently have an HIV infection. However, a window period (the time between exposure and detectability) may exist if you were recently exposed. Follow-up testing may be necessary. Positive result: Indicates the presence of either the p24 antigen or HIV antibodies, suggesting an HIV infection. If the initial test is positive, confirmatory tests (such as an HIV-1/2 differentiation immunoassay) are typically conducted to ensure accuracy and identify the type of HIV.
What is the difference between HIV Ag/Ab with Reflex Test and HIV 4th Generation Blood Test?
HIV Ag/Ab with Reflex Test includes an automatic confirmatory test (reflex) if the initial screening is positive, ensuring a more streamlined and complete diagnosis. HIV 4th Generation Blood Test detects both HIV antibodies and p24 antigen but may require a separate follow-up test to confirm positive results and differentiate between HIV-1 and HIV-2. Both tests are highly effective for early HIV detection, but the HIV Ag/Ab with Reflex Test offers a more comprehensive, single-step approach to diagnosis, while the HIV 4th Generation Blood Test may require additional follow-up for confirmation.