HIV | Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1/2 (HIV 1/2) antibodies and p24 Ag (including group 0) detection

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) antibody test – a laboratory blood test to determine if a person is infected with HIV – the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Antibodies against HIV are usually detected 6–12 weeks after infection, but in some cases, they can be detected earlier or later, depending on the individual immune system response.

Infection spreads through blood, sexually, as well as from mother to fetus during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The most common early symptoms after infection – flu-like symptoms: fever, sore throat, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms often resolve on their own, so the infection may go unnoticed.

Recommendations:

• It is recommended for all sexually active individuals at least once a year.
• Useful after unprotected sexual intercourse, blood transfusion (especially before 1993), intravenous drug use.
• Prescribed for pregnant women to prevent transmission to the fetus.
• Performed before surgical interventions or organ donation.
• It is recommended to come for the test on an empty stomach, although it is not necessary. The test is anonymous and confidential.