HIV Test

The HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) Test for the virus which causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is a test looking for antibodies produced against the virus. This test may be falsely negative (normal) in the so-called “window period” between the time of infection and the time that the body’s immune response reacts to the virus by producing antibodies.

How the Test is Performed

The HIV Test should only be performed with the patient’s consent, with arrangements for counselling both before and after the test.
The test itself requires a sample of blood from a vein. Sometimes, results will be given at a planned appointment as a face-to-face consultation, rather than over the telephone or by mail.

Medical Conditions and Symptoms

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The HIV Test is usually performed in people without any symptoms, as a screening test to exclude HIV infection. Examples include routine blood testing in pregnancy, and for puposes of immigration or medical insurance.

Test Results Explained

HIV Test results are reported as positive or negative.
A POSITIVE test indicates that infection with HIV is very likely – further testing may be needed to confirm this.
A NEGATIVE test means that infection with HIV was NOT detected. In the early stages of HIV infection, antibodies against the virus may not have been produced by the body. This “window period” may cause results to be falsely negative – and therefore falsely reassuring, in some HIV tests.

Related Specialists

Related Procedures

Blood Test (venesection)

Related Tests

Also Known As

HIV Antibodies
HIV serology
HIV ELISA
HIV PCR
Retrovirus Serology