HIV Test

The cost of an HIV test varies based on the type of test and the location. In India, the price typically ranges  depending on whether it is a rapid test, ELISA test, or PCR test. Government hospitals and health centers may offer free HIV testing.

If you test HIV positive, confirm the diagnosis with a follow-up test. False positives are rare but possible.
Then consult a doctor or HIV specialist for further evaluation.

You should take an HIV test if:
1. You had unprotected sex with a new or multiple partners.
2. You shared needles or syringes.
3. You are pregnant (to prevent mother-to-child transmission).
4. You had a possible exposure to HIV and need early detection.
5. As part of routine health check-ups, especially if you are at high risk.

HIV-1 and HIV-2 are two types of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), with HIV-1 being the most common worldwide and typically progressing faster than HIV-2. In contrast, HIV-2 is mainly found in West Africa and tends to progress more slowly, leading to a lower risk of transmission. Standard HIV tests generally detect both types, but specific tests can differentiate between them if needed. Identifying the type of HIV is important for treatment decisions, as HIV-2 may respond differently to certain antiretroviral therapies compared to HIV-1.

The HIV antigen test (HIV p24 antigen test) detects p24 protein, a part of the virus, before antibodies develop. It is part of the 4th generation HIV test, which can detect HIV as early as 10-14 days after exposure.

HIV tests measure HIV antibodies, which are produced by the immune system to fight the virus, and HIV antigens (p24 protein), which appear in the early stages of infection. Some tests, like the HIV RNA (PCR) test, detect the virus’s genetic material in the blood, allowing for early detection before antibodies develop. These tests help diagnose HIV at different stages and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

HIV can be detected at different stages depending on the test used. The HIV RNA (PCR) test can detect the virus as early as 10 days after exposure by identifying its genetic material. The 4th Generation Antigen-Antibody Test detects HIV within 10-14 days by identifying both the p24 antigen and antibodies. The 3rd Generation Antibody Test relies solely on antibodies and can detect HIV between 3 to 8 weeks after exposure, making it less effective for early detection.

The time for HIV test results varies based on the test type. A Rapid HIV Test provides results within 15 to 30 minutes, while the ELISA (lab test) typically takes 1 to 3 days. The PCR (RNA) test, which detects the virus’s genetic material, usually delivers results within 1 to 5 days, depending on the laboratory's processing time.

The HIV RNA (PCR) test is highly accurate after two weeks, as it detects the virus’s genetic material early. The 4th Generation Antigen-Antibody Test is fairly accurate at this stage but requires a follow-up test after four weeks for confirmation. The 3rd Generation Antibody Test is not reliable after two weeks, as antibodies may not have developed yet; it is best to wait 3-4 weeks for more accurate results.