How to Test for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the virus that can cause AIDS by destroying the body's white blood cells (T-cells or CD4 cells) which are an important part of the immune and defense system. The immune system gives our bodies the ability to fight infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 180,000 to 280,000 people nationwide are HIV-positive, yet are unaware. That is why it is so important to understand about HIV and AIDS and to prevent contracting or spreading this deadly disease. There are many ways to prevent or reduce the risks of getting HIV and AIDS and the following are some suggestions.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take an HIV test. The ELISA or EIA (Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay) and the western blot tests are used to diagnose HIV in the body. The tests consist of analyzing blood taken from a person who is at risk or suspected of having contracted the virus for the presence of antibodies produced against the virus.

2. If tested positive with the ELISA, the confirmatory result can only occur after testing positive with a western blot test. The western blot test is very specific and able to detect specific protein bands that are present in an individual infected with HIV. A positive ELISA together with a positive western blot can predict an accuracy of 99.9 percent in HIV detection.

3. The tests are simple and fast to perform. Typically, blood is drawn from a vein taken from several areas of the arm, e.g. the inner elbow or the surface of the hand. The area is first cleaned with antiseptic, then a band tourniquet made from elastic plastic is wrapped around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood. The needle is then inserted into the vein and blood is drawn out and collected into an airtight vial. Once the vials are full, the needle is withdrawn from the vein and the puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic and covered to prevent further bleeding.

4. HIV testing is also performed on babies and young children. To draw the blood from the vein, a sharp, pointed instrument (lancet) may be used to puncture the skin. The blood is then collected into a pipette or small glass tube or straight onto a glass slide or test strip. A band-aid is used to cover the puncture site and prevent further bleeding.

5. The Rapid Test is fast and inexpensive. It takes about 20 minutes for the results versus the conventional tests which could take up to two weeks for an answer. If the rapid test is positive, then a set of second tests are performed before giving a confirmatory diagnosis.

6. There are currently two FDA-approved tests that use oral fluids instead of blood. The fluids are evaluated using an EIA, and if necessary, positive results are confirmed with a western blot. The OraQuick Rapid HIV testing kit from OraSure Technologies uses this method for testing HIV antibodies in the blood. A toothbrush-like device is inserted into the mouth instead of drawing blood, then left for a few minutes for the saliva to soak into the swab end of the device. Next, the swab is inserted into a tube of testing fluid and the tube is sealed and sent off to the laboratory for HIV testing.

7. FDA-approved home test kits are available at local pharmacies and drugstores. The Home Access kit is one in which a blood sample is sent to a national laboratory. These involve pricking your finger with a special lancet provided in the kit. Blood droplets are placed on the specially treated test card. The card is mailed to the processing lab as instructed and users are given an identification number to use when phoning for the results. Some home test kits provide contact information for test counselors who can be contacted before taking the test, while waiting for results and after getting the results. You must always call in to receive your results.

8. National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) is an annual campaign sponsored by the National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA-US) to encourage at-risk individuals to receive voluntary HIV counseling and testing. To learn more about how to participate in NHTD, visit the NAPWA HIV Testing Day website (see Resources below) or email: [e-mail].

Tips & Warnings

• HIV testing sites are found in various places: e.g. hospitals, clinics, doctor's offices and community health centers.
• Look for HIV testing sites that also offer pre and post counseling. Certified HIV test counselors provide important information about safer sex, HIV risk reduction and how to incorporate these aspects into your relationship.
• Always follow instructions on the package for HIV testing.
• Be cautious when buying a non-FDA approved test kit because it could be inaccurate and give false positive results. Talk to your local HIV agency or call the CDC Hotline to get a list of reliable, approved test kits.
• After pricking your finger with the lancet dispose of it according to the directions provided. NEVER dispose of sharp objects or needles in a trash can or container.
• This article is not a substitute or replacement for seeking professional medical attention from your own medical doctor or healthcare professional.

Resources

• Jewell Productions
• National Association of People with AIDS (US)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• National HIV and STD Testing Resources

[danoluma]

on 4/17/2008 Thanks so much for the article which is very helpful

[Maryberg]

on 4/9/2008 This is a really informative article packed with loads of very useful advice and tips. Thank you for sharing yuor wealth of knowldege and expertize especially on such an important topic...thank you...