HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test near me in Kalyan
Understanding HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test in Kalyan
What is HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test in Kalyan?
An HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test is an advanced (fourth-generation) screening test for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection that simultaneously detects HIV p24 antigen and antibodies associated with HIV (type 1 and 2). The p24 antigen is the first marker of the presence of HIV in the body. Since the p24 antigen is usually detectable a few days before HIV antibodies, this test helps reduce the window period for HIV detection. The test helps in the early diagnosis if an HIV infection is suspected. However, additional testing is required to make a confirmatory diagnosis. It is available at an affordable price with Tata 1 mg labs in Kalyan.
This test is advised for individuals who are at an increased risk of HIV infection such as those who have an HIV-positive sex partner, have multiple sexual partners, are homosexual, and who share needles frequently. Also, annual screening is advised for those who are identified to be at high risk for HIV infection.
Fasting is not required before this test. However, a duly filled consent form for HIV testing & Pre-test counseling (Annexure - CR/01) is mandatory at the time of sample collection.
What does HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test measure?
An HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test simultaneously detects HIV p24 antigen and antibodies associated with HIV 1 & 2. The HIV p24 antigen is the most abundant HIV protein and its detection is used clinically to diagnose an HIV infection early on since HIV-specific antibodies are not detectable in a very recently acquired infection. 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.