Name of the Procedure:

Antibody Test for HIV-1 and HIV-2

Summary

An HIV antibody test detects the presence of antibodies specific to HIV-1 and HIV-2 in the blood. This test can indicate if a person has been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the need to diagnose HIV infection. The goals are to determine if an individual has been infected by either HIV-1 or HIV-2, enabling timely treatment and management of the condition, and to prevent the spread of the virus to others.

Indications

• Symptoms such as persistent fever, night sweats, weight loss, and chronic diarrhea.
• High-risk behaviors or exposure such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, or occupational exposures.
• Pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
• Patients diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections.

Preparation

• No fasting or special preparation is typically required.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any medications or supplements being taken.
• Pre-procedure counseling may be provided to discuss the implications of the test results.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare provider will clean the skin at the puncture site (usually the arm).
2. A sterile needle is used to draw a small sample of blood from a vein.
3. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
4. The test identifies antibodies specific to HIV-1 and HIV-2.

Duration

The blood draw itself takes about 5-10 minutes. Results could be available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory processing time.

Setting

Typically performed in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or specialized testing centers.

Personnel

• Licensed phlebotomist or nurse to draw blood.
• Laboratory technicians to process and analyze the blood sample.
• Healthcare providers (doctor, nurse, or counselor) to provide results and counseling.

Risks and Complications

• Minor discomfort or bruising at the needle insertion site.
• Fainting or dizziness may occur in some individuals.
• Rare risk of infection at the puncture site.

Benefits

• Determines HIV status, aiding in early diagnosis and treatment.
• Reduces the risk of virus transmission through informed behavior.
• Provides peace of mind if the result is negative, or guides further medical care if positive.

Recovery

• Minimal to no recovery time; normal activities can be resumed immediately.
• Follow-up counseling or medical appointment may be recommended based on results.

Alternatives

• Rapid HIV tests that provide results within minutes, though they may require confirmation with a standard antibody test if positive.
• HIV RNA (viral load) test, particularly useful in early infection before antibodies are detectable.
• Home testing kits are available but may need confirmation by a healthcare provider if positive.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel a quick, slight sting from the needle during blood draw.
• Anxiety about waiting for results is common; support and counseling are available.
• No significant pain should be expected, and post-procedure comfort is typically high.