Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV 1/O/2), the etiologic agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a cytopathic retrovirus. This test uses recombinant antigen sources and detects antibodies by specific immune binding and the subsequent chemiluminescent reaction (ICMA technology). The sensitivity and specificity of this assay are 100% and 99.9% respectively. Sera which are repeatedly reactive in two out of three tests are then subject to confirmatory HIV-1 testing by the Western blot method. Some individuals may initially be reactive by the preliminary test and negative or indeterminate by Western blot. In rare occurrences, this may be caused by other viral antibodies or autoantibodies which cross react with the viral antigens.
When a person is infected with HIV, their body responds by producing special proteins that fight infection, called antibodies. An HIV antibody test looks for these antibodies in blood, saliva or urine. If antibodies to HIV are detected, it means a person has been infected with HIV.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) II. Genital herpes is a common and highly contagious infection that is usually spread through sex. This infection is usually caused by the herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) although herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), may cause genital herpes. Genital herpes treatment includes medicines to help heal sores faster and prevent outbreaks.
Hepatitis C Antibody Blood Test. This test is used for detecting antibodies to Hepatitis C virus. Since a person with past infection will have a life long antibody response, confirmed positive antibody tests mean that at the person had been exposed to the virus at one time or another. These tests are extremely effective in ruling out HCV. The most up to date EIA is capable of antibody detection as early as six-eight weeks. Though a negative test at this time can be extremely useful, it is best to wait about three months to avoid the need for a follow up test.
