HIV 1 And 2 Antibody

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This test is for

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Understanding HIV 1 And 2 Antibody

What is HIV 1 And 2 Antibody?

An HIV 1 And 2 Antibody test detects HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies in the blood and confirms the presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This test can be done if you suspect an accidental exposure to this virus or with somebody who is infected.

HIV is transmitted through sexual contact, by exposure to the blood of AIDS-infected individuals, or from an infected mother to an unborn baby. For the first few weeks of an HIV infection, the level of antigen (HIV) increases in the blood. After 2-8 weeks, the body starts producing antibodies against this antigen, and the levels of both the antibody and antigen tend to decrease.

An HIV 1 And 2 Antibody test detects the antibodies after 3-12 weeks of exposure to the virus; therefore, it cannot be used as a screening test. Your doctor may advise this test if you show symptoms of HIV infection, such as sudden weight loss, night sweats, extreme tiredness, swollen lymph nodes, white spots in your mouth, pneumonia, forgetfulness, depression, etc. You may also get tested if you are at risk of HIV-1 or HIV-2 infection or have been exposed to the blood of an HIV-infected individual. This test also helps to differentiate between HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection.

You may talk to your doctor about all the pre-test instructions. No special preparation is required for this test; eat or drink normally as per your daily routine. However, a duly-filled consent form is mandatory for sample collection.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between different labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your condition, and formulate your overall treatment plan.

What is HIV 1 And 2 Antibody used for?

An HIV 1 And 2 Antibody test is done:

To detect AIDS.
To confirm HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies.
To differentiate HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies in specimens of serum that show reactive results with third and fourth-generation HIV serologic assays.

What does HIV 1 And 2 Antibody measure?

An HIV 1 And 2 Antibody detects HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies in the blood and confirms the presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV-1 was discovered first and is the most widespread, whereas HIV-2 is more than 55% genetically different from HIV-1. The transmission rate of HIV-2 is also slower than HIV-1. This test also helps to differentiate between the two HIV infections.

Interpreting HIV 1 And 2 Antibody results

Interpretations

A negative test means that the person is not infected from HIV.

However, a person who is under the risk of getting infected from AIDS to get screened from time to time.

A positive test means that the person is infected with HIV.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about HIV 1 And 2 Antibody

Frequently Asked Questions about HIV 1 And 2 Antibody

Q. How is an HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibody test performed?

Your doctor will clean the skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take out a blood sample from your body using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the lab for analysis.

Q. Is there any risk associated with an HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibody test?

There is usually no risk associated with this test. However, some people may feel a slight sting when a needle is pricked and may experience some bleeding that is normal and usually not bothersome. Rarely, some people may also experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick. Applying ice 3-4 times a day for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.

Q. Which screening tests are advised by the doctor for patients at risk of HIV?

The screening tests available for HIV include combination HIV antibody and HIV antigen test, HIV antibody testing, and p24 antigen testing.

Q. Is an HIV infection curable?

An HIV infection is not curable but if diagnosed early, proper treatment can be started. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is used to treat the infection. This therapy helps in reducing the levels of the virus in the body, which in turn will improve the health.

Q. What are the symptoms of an HIV infection?

The symptoms of an HIV infection are similar to that of influenza and other viral infections, such as fever, sore throat, and muscle and joint pain. It is possible that the symptoms may go unidentified for years. In order to avoid such a condition, the best way is to get screened for HIV infections periodically.