HIV 1 & 2 Antibodies Test

What is the HIV 1 and 2 antibody test?

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a viral disease affecting the body's immune system. There are 2 types of HIV: HIV-1 and HIV-2. These viruses are similar in terms of their overall genomic structure, shape, and capacity for infection. The virus is spread by direct contact of blood with people infected with HIV-1. Unsafe sexual contact, blood transmission, and transmission from the mother to the foetus are ways HIV might spread. The majority of HIV-2 infections are found in West Africa, and patients who had intercourse with people from that location are found to be infected. HIV 1 and 2 test helps to detect antibodies for HIV. HIV 1 & 2 Antibodies Test shows that in response to HIV, the body makes antibodies against the virus's antigen.

When is the HIV 1 and 2 antibody Test done?

A doctor may recommend this Test in the following.

• In case of high-grade fever
• In case he detects sexually transmitted diseases
• In the case of Hepatitis B
• As a routine test before surgery
• If one gives a history of sharing needles and syringes
• Giving a history of unsafe sex
• A pregnant women experiencing fever

What are the components of the HIV 1 and 2 antibody Test?

The amount of HIV present and the level of p24 antigen in the blood increase significantly in the first few weeks after an HIV infection. The body begins to produce antibodies after another 2 to 8 weeks, and the elevated levels begin to decline. Currently, blood testing can identify the HIV viral antibodies in the patient. Assays for HIV antibodies 1 and 2 can be run independently or in conjunction with ultrasounds and other tests.

What is the usual range of the HIV 1 and 2 antibody Test?

• A non-reactive result: A non-reactive results mean that the person is not suffering from HIV
• A reactive result: A reactive result means that the person has HIV and needs to take proper medications and medical advice.
• Note: The value may vary from laboratory to laboratory. Sometimes the patient is detected to have HIV accidentally, i.e. while being tested for another test.

How is the HIV 1 and 2 antibody test done?

• The sample is taken from the vein
• The report usually comes within a few hours of the sample collection
• No need to fast before the Test.