How to test for AIDS

Feb 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, HIV can be tested through antibody testing, antigen-antibody combination testing, viral load testing, oral mucosal transudate testing, urine testing, and other methods. If necessary, it is recommended to visit a正规 hospital and follow the guidance of a qualified physician. After the body is infected with the HIV virus, the immune system will produce corresponding antibodies.

Generally, HIV can be tested through antibody testing, antigen-antibody combination testing, viral load testing, oral mucosal transudate testing, urine testing, and other methods. If necessary, it is recommended to visit a正规 hospital and perform the tests under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Antibody Testing

After the body is infected with HIV, the immune system will produce corresponding antibodies. Blood samples are collected and tested using techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or chemiluminescence.

2. Antigen-Antibody Combination Testing

This method detects not only antibodies but also the p24 antigen of HIV. The p24 antigen appears during the early stage of infection and can usually be detected about two weeks after infection.

3. Viral Load Testing

This primarily measures the amount of HIV RNA in the blood and directly reflects the level of viral replication in the body. Viral load can generally be detected about one week after infection.

4. Oral Mucosal Transudate Testing

This is a non-invasive testing method that collects oral mucosal transudate to detect HIV antibodies and can be used for rapid on-site testing or self-testing.

5. Urine Testing

HIV antibodies or related markers may be present in urine. Specific test strips or laboratory methods can be used to test urine samples, although the accuracy is slightly lower compared to blood testing.

Before and after testing, maintain personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, ensure a balanced diet, and consume more protein- and vitamin-rich foods to enhance immune resistance.

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