HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag (Combo) Test
HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag (Combo) Test
HIV 1 and 2 antibodies & p24 Antigen test detect the presence of both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibodies and p24 antigen (protein) present on the surface of HIV virus-infected cells in your blood. HIV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that attacks and destroys immune cells that protect your body against diseases. Symptoms usually appear 2–4 weeks after infection, but they can take months (the window period) to appear. Sometimes, HIV infection can result in life-threatening acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
An HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test helps you know if you have an infection, and with early detection, you can receive early treatment. The available treatment for HIV can help strengthen the immune system and fight the virus more effectively. Thus, receiving early treatment can prevent the progression of AIDS
Symptoms of HIV
The common symptoms of HIV include
Fever
Chills
Rash
Night sweats
Muscle aches
Sore throat
Fatigue
Swollen lymph nodes
. Mouth ulcers
What tests are included in HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test?
1
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HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test measures both HIV antibodies and p24 antigen. It is an advanced HIV test from the fourth generation
2
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HIV 1 &2 Ab test: This test detects antibodies against the HIV virus in blood or oral fluid. Antibodies are substances produced by your immune system when exposed to antigens (foreign substances like viruses).
3
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P24 Antigen Test: This test detects the presence of the p24 antigen. If you have HIV, antigen p24 will be present in your blood
Who should get tested for HIV?
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once. However, some individuals are at higher risk and should get tested yearly; these include:
Men who have had sex with other men
Individuals who have had anal or vaginal sex with someone who has HIV
Those who have shared needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment
People who have had more than one sex partner
People who have been diagnosed with or treated for any other sexually transmitted disease
Individuals who have been diagnosed with or treated for hepatitis or tuberculosis
Preparation for test
No special preparation is required for this test
Interpretation of results
Positive test result
If you have a positive result for HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test, it means that HIV viruses were found in your sample. A follow-up test is required to confirm the HIV diagnosis. If your follow-up test also shows positive for HIV, it means you have an HIV infection. You will have to consult the right healthcare provider for treatment and to maintain a good quality of life.
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Negative test result
A negative result for HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test, suggests that no HIV viruses were found in your sample. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you don’t have HIV. This is because the time between HIV exposure and detection in the body using a test differs according to the type of HIV test used. After the window period, if the test result is negative, provided you have no other exposure during that time, it means that you do not have an HIV infection. Negative test results may require further testing after 4 weeks.
FAQs
How is HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test performed?
During this test, a healthcare professional will take a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle, which is collected into a test tube or vial. This usually takes less than five minutes.
What are the risks associated with HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test?
There are no known risks. During a blood test, one may experience minor pain or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will subside quickly
I have tested positive for HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test. Does this mean I have AIDS?
No, a positive test result for HIV does not mean you have AIDS. HIV can progress into AIDS if the individual diagnosed with HIV does not receive the right treatment or take the right care of their health
When should I get tested for HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test after exposure to HIV infection?
The HIV 1&2 Ab & p24 Ag test is performed four weeks after the exposure. This test is more accurate after 4-5 weeks of exposure. However, the p24 antigen first appears in the blood between 14 and 20 days after exposure.
How accurate is HIV 1 & 2 Ab & p24 Ag test in detection of HIV virus?
HIV 1 &2 Ab & p24 Ag test is a fourth-generation test that is extremely specific and sensitive. Compared to HIV rapid testing, it is more accurate in detecting early HIV infections
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