Description
FDA-Approved HIV Antibody Test
Our standard HIV test is the HIV 4th Generation Duo Antigen/Antibody Test. This FDA-approved 4th generation HIV test evaluates the blood for HIV Type 1 and Type 2 in two ways: By detecting antibodies that your immune system creates specifically to fight the HIV virus, as well as detecting Human Immunodeficiency Virus antigens called HIV P24 antigens. These antigens are viral proteins that make up most of the core of the virus; they are especially helpful in diagnosing HIV because these antigen levels P24 antigens are high in the first few weeks after infection. Since this test is sensitive to P24 antigens, it is useful for diagnosing HIV infections when antibody levels are still initially low. If your initial blood test result is positive, a confirmation test will be completed on the same blood sample to confirm the diagnosis at no additional cost. Getting tested for HIV is essential– It is possible to have HIV and infect your partner without showing any signs or symptoms of having the virus.
All laboratory testing, including STD tests, accuracy rates are measured in terms of sensitivity and specificity. Our FDA-approved HIV 4th generation antibody/antigen test has a sensitivity rate of 100% and a specificity of 99.72-100%.
More Information about HIV Antibody Testing
Does the HIV Antibody Test use a blood or urine sample?
Our HIV Antibody Test involves a small blood sample. There is no undressing or uncomfortable swabbing.
What do I need to do to prepare for the test?
No fasting or additional preparation is needed for the HIV Antibody blood test.
When is the right time to get the HIV Antibody Test?
The right time to take our 4th Generation HIV Antibody / Antigen Test is 2-3 weeks after exposure. Our blood test searches for the presence of these antibodies in the blood, as well as antigens on the surface of the HIV virus. Most people will develop detectable antibodies (proteins made by the immune system to fight the HIV virus) within this time frame, but in rare cases it may take up to 3 months for them to develop. This test is sensitive to P24 antigens, so it is useful for diagnosing HIV infections when antibody levels are still initially low. We do recommend retesting after three months have past since potential exposure for conclusive results. If antibodies or antigens to HIV are found, a supplemental differentiation assay is performed at no additional cost to confirm the presence of HIV. If you are concerned about recent exposure, our HIV RNA Early Detection Test can detect the presence of HIV as early as 9-11 days after exposure.
What will the test results say?
Your HIV test results will say either positive or negative. There are no signs of HIV antibodies or antigens in the blood if the result is negative. If positive, HIV antibodies were found, and a confirmation test will be completed on the same blood sample to confirm the diagnosis at no additional cost.
Can HIV be cured or treated?
No, there is no cure for HIV, but with the help of various anti-retroviral drugs, HIV can be managed and individuals with HIV can lead normal lives. The medications prescribed to treat and manage HIV strengthen the immune system and help prevent HIV from developing into AIDS.
Who needs HIV Antibody testing?
HIV affects both men and women. Anyone who has had unprotected sex or who engages in intravenous drug use should get tested. It is possible to have HIV for a long time without being aware, especially because its symptoms (if present) could be mistaken for other illnesses. The only way to know is to get tested. The HIV test should be a part of your routine STD screening.
When is the Right Time to Test For HIV?
Now is the best time to test for HIV. Know your HIV and STD status today.
If you had a recent unprotected sexual encounter with someone whose STD status you do not know or who uses intravenous drugs, it is important that you get tested for HIV and other STDs today. Most people will develop detectable antibodies as soon as 2-3 weeks after exposure, but in rare cases, it may take up to 3 months. Take our 4th Generation HIV Antibody / Antigen Test 2-3 weeks or the HIV RNA Early Detection Test in 9-11 days after exposure.
For answers to your questions about HIV testing, call our Care Advisors 24/7 at 1-800-456-2323.
Medically Reviewed by J. Frank Martin JR., MD on Jun 18, 2019
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What happens if you test positive for HIV 1 & 2 Antibody (4th Gen)?
If your HIV test comes back positive, you are eligible for a phone consultation with one of our doctors. You can choose a convenient time for this phone consultation. Our doctors will discuss your test results and explain follow-up options, including treatment. They may also refer you to a local HIV specialist at the doctor’s discretion. As always, our Care Advisors are available 24/7 at 1-800-456-2323 to answer any questions you may have about your HIV Test.
We are here for you. Call us at 1-800-456-2323
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