What test confirms a positive HIV result?

What test confirms a positive HIV result?

HIV antibody tests are the most commonly used tests to determine if someone has HIV. Antibody testing is usually done on a blood sample, often using an enzyme-linked assay called an ELISA or EIA. In this test, a person’s serum is allowed to react with virus proteins that have been produced in the laboratory.

How do you read HIV test results?

Results from laboratory tests are given as negative, positive or indeterminate. Negative or non-reactive means you are HIV negative. You do not have HIV (based on the window period and no recent risks). Positive or reactive means the test shows you are HIV positive and you have HIV infection.

How long does it take to get a positive HIV result?

It can take up to three to 12 weeks for your body to make enough antibodies for an antibody test to detect HIV infection. It usually takes a few days to a few weeks to get results of an HIV test, although rapid HIV tests can produce results in about 20 minutes.

Can you test negative if your viral load is undetectable?

Antibodies are still present in individuals living with HIV—even people who have suppressed their viral load. That means people living with HIV will still test positive for HIV on an antibody HIV test even if their viral load is undetectable.

What do I do if my HIV test is positive?

If your HIV test result is positive, you may need to get a follow-up test to be sure you have HIV. Your health care provider or counselor may talk with you about your risk factors, answer questions about your general health, and discuss next steps with you, especially if your result is positive.

What happens if I test positive for HIV?

If an HIV antibody test is negative but suspicion of exposure remains high, then repeat testing using the HIV antigen/antibody blood test may be required. If someone tests positive on both the initial screen and supplemental testing, then that person is considered to be infected with HIV.

What can cause a false positive HIV test result?

A false positive HIV result may appear up to 112 days after the flu vaccination. Pregnancy, particularly multiple pregnancies is also a cause of false positive HIV test results. This is mostly attributed to supposed HIV specific antigens, all of which are found in healthy human placenta.