The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection stems from a viral infection prompting the production of two antibody types, namely HIV1 and HIV2, depending on the virus variant. If left untreated, HIV can progress to the severe and life-threatening condition known as acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). In the early stages, HIV does not have any symptoms. Therefore, HIV screening is the only way to detect the infection. As a result, if there is a risk or suspicion of HIV exposure, it is crucial to get tested. The HIV test serves as a vital screening measure, facilitating the monitoring of the disease and aiding in treatment decisions.
Your doctor may recommend an HIV test if you are at high risk of acquiring an HIV infection. Following are the conditions under which the doctor will advise you to take the HIV test:
Consider the HIV test if you've had unprotected sex and would like to check if you are HIV-positive, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms.
Consider HIV-1 testing if you exhibit flu-like symptoms, including fever, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, cough, rash, diarrhea, headaches, and muscle and joint aches.
Individuals who share needles for drug injections should opt for testing due to the association between needle-sharing and HIV transmission.
Men who have sex with men should undergo testing every 3 to 6 months as a preventive measure for themselves and others.
Pregnant women should undergo HIV testing with each pregnancy, regardless of prior negative results.
Testing is recommended for those diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection (STI) as it may indicate potential high-risk behavior.
Healthcare workers who may have had a needle-stick injury with a contaminated needle or device should get tested after exposure and in the next 4-6 months.
You should also get tested if you have had sex with someone whose HIV status is positive or unknown or who has done anything listed above.
The HIV test considers the following parameters during laboratory assessment: HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibody and antigen.
The presence of any of these parameters in the blood sample during testing confirms the diagnosis of HIV in an individual.
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