Can a routine blood test detect AIDS?
Mar 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, a complete blood count (CBC) alone cannot directly detect HIV infection. Avoid using blood products of unknown origin in daily life, and ensure that syringes, needles, surgical instruments, and other medical devices used during medical procedures have been strictly sterilized. In addition, avoid unnecessary tattoos, ear piercing, and similar procedures. If such procedures are necessary, choose reputable and hygienic facilities.
Generally speaking, a routine blood test alone cannot directly detect HIV infection. The detailed explanation is as follows:
A complete blood count (CBC) primarily examines components in the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, to assess overall blood health and identify conditions like anemia, infections, or blood disorders. AIDS, however, is caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). To diagnose AIDS, specific tests must detect the presence of HIV antigens, antibodies, or viral nucleic acids in the body. During the course of HIV infection, a CBC may reveal certain abnormalities, such as decreased lymphocyte count. However, these changes are not specific to HIV and cannot be used alone to diagnose AIDS, as they may also result from various other causes of lymphocyte reduction.
In daily life, avoid using blood products of unknown origin, and ensure that syringes, needles, surgical instruments, and other medical devices used during medical procedures have been strictly sterilized. Additionally, avoid unnecessary body piercing, tattooing, or ear piercing. If such procedures are necessary, choose reputable and hygienic facilities.
