HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test near me in Ernakulam
Understanding HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test in Ernakulam
What is HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test in Ernakulam?
An HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test test detects human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1 and HIV-2) antibodies in the blood and is available at an affordable price in Ernakulam with Tata 1mg labs. These antibodies may take about 6-12 weeks (upto 6 months in some cases) to form after infection/ exposure. For the first few weeks after an HIV infection, the level of antigen (HIV) increases in the blood, and after 2-8 weeks, the body starts producing antibodies against these antigens. An HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test test detects antibodies at this time, as after this, both the antigen and antibody levels in the blood fall.
Your doctor may advise this HIV antibody 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. An HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test test also helps assess an individual's risk of HIV infection, particularly those with known risk factors, such as engaging in unprotected sex, sharing needles for drug use, or having sexual partners with HIV. This test also helps to differentiate between HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection.
A duly filled consent form is mandatory for sample collection. However, no other special preparations are required for HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test test. You can eat or drink as per your daily routine.
What does HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test measure?
An HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test 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. However, due to high cross-reactivity between the two subtypes, confirmation tests such as western blot or PCR must be performed.