The HIV test (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a blood test that detects the presence of antibodies to HIV. This test is called Elisa (enzyme immunosorbent assay absorbent) and is not specific to this infection, therefore, must be confirmed with another test called Western Blot, if give the Elisa with positive outcome. Instead of Elisa, the patient can also be done proof Meier (enzyme method of immuno analysis).
The human body normally produces antibodies to fight disease. In the case of HIV antibodies show only that the person is infected with the virus. Being infected means the virus is present in the body and that of not taking appropriate precautions, can infect other people, but feels well and has no symptoms at all. Being infected, is not the same as having AIDS.
Results
A positive result means that they are HIV antibodies in their blood. This means that HIV carrier is not having AIDS. It is important to know that can infect another person if it maintains unprotected sex (without condoms) or by direct contact with blood with blood. These people should always protect themselves in their sex to not be at risk of re-infection, hence, must prevent HIV re-enter his body, because that would increase the possibility of contracting AIDS.
If the result is negative, meaning that there were no antibodies to HIV in the blood. To be sure of the outcome of the analysis must wait up to 6 months after the risk.
How is it done?
Through a blood test, with an 8-hour prior fasting, will know the outcome of the test. The patient must be over 18 years, otherwise, must be approved by a higher. If not for a routine inspection, it is recommended testing three months after the risk.
The results are available after a week to 15 days of the test done.
How much does it cost?
The test is performed for free at all municipal hospitals.
When is it appropriate to conduct the test?
Discovery is systematic and compulsory from giving blood, semen, organ and tissue to prevent virus transmission to the receiver.
It is also recommended for all health professional who has suffered an accident at risk of potential contamination, especially in case of injuries material stained with blood.
People exposed to infection (multiple partners), or just after unprotected intercourse (heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual), addicted to intravenous drug and people from countries where the infection rate is high should be performed test.
Pregnant women should also perform the test as a precaution.
How much time must elapse after infecting a contact for the test is positive?
The antibodies appear after a certain period of 3 to 12 weeks on average.
The test for detecting antibodies is therefore negative at the beginning of the infection despite the fact that the person is carrying the virus. The positivización test corresponds to the emergence of antibodies, that is what is known as seroconversion.
Confidentiality
An analysis of AIDS can be done only with the consent of the person who performs it, is confidential.