HIV Test

HIV is often a silent infection in the early stages with no obvious symptoms. However, this initial stage of acute HIV infection is when HIV is the most infectious. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential to begin antiretroviral therapy immediately to prevent the transmission of HIV.

$49.00

Details

What is Included?

Detection of the HIV p24 antigen, and antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2 by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay.

Turnaround Time

1 – 3 business days

The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.

Related Documents

SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS

Preparation Before Specimen Collection

For individuals receiving anticoagulants, collect specimen prior to heparin therapy.

Specimen Type

Blood

Volume

Dried blood spot collection onto 5 circles on the collection card
or
50 μL in a microtainer

Container

Blood collection card
or
Microtainer (regular blood tube)

Collection Method

This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.

First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
Wipe away the first drop of blood.
Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
Drip blood onto the blood collection card or into the microtainer tube.
Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.

NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.

Specimen Storage

Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.

Specimen Stability
  • Dried blood spots can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 30 days.
  • Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.
Causes for Rejection
  • Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
  • Incorrect specimen collection
  • Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
  • Incorrect specimen volume

TEST DETAILS

Purpose

To detect HIV antigen and/or antibodies in a blood sample for screening for HIV infections. Supplementary tests are required for confirmation of positive results in this assay.

Limitations
  • This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications.
  • These results are intended for screening and monitoring for HIV, and should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
  • Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance.
  • A negative result does not exclude the possibility of infection. False-negative test results may occur due to improper specimen collection, or specimen collection during the window period post-exposure when p24 antigen and HIV antibody levels are below detectable limits.
  • False results may occur in specimens from individuals that have received preparations of mouse monoclonal antibodies for diagnosis or therapy. Additional clinical or diagnostic information may be required for these specimens.
  • Assay interference may occur in specimens from individuals routinely exposed to animals or to animal serum products. Additional clinical or diagnostic information may be required for these specimens.
Methodology

Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (Alinity i HIV Ag/Ab Combo)

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