HIV Screening
What is HIV screening?
HIV screening is a diagnostic process aimed at identifying the presence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the body. This test examines blood for the presence of antibodies or antigens, indicative of infection, to determine if HIV is present.
HIV attacks the immune system, compromising the body's ability to combat infections. If left untreated, HIV can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). While an HIV test can reveal an HIV infection, it cannot confirm the presence of AIDS.
When should an HIV screening be done?
If there's a suspicion of potential exposure to HIV, it is advisable to undergo an HIV test promptly. No test can immediately detect HIV upon infection; there is a window period between HIV entry into the body and when the test can identify it. Typically, HIV tests can detect the virus 2 to 6 weeks post-exposure, although detection may take up to 6 months. When scheduling a test, it's crucial to consider this window period.
Routine HIV screening is also recommended as part of regular healthcare. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends HIV screening for everyone aged 13 to 64 at least once. Cohen Care provides testing for individuals over 18, and those at higher risk should undergo testing annually.
Free HIV tests may be available for those in need, and the CDC's Get Tested website can help locate local testing sites.
What types of HIV tests are available?
Cohen Care offers the following HIV screening blood test:
Antigen/antibody test: This test detects both HIV antibodies and antigens. Antigens activate the immune system, and the HIV antigen called p24 is produced before antibodies develop. The test involves drawing blood, sent to a laboratory for analysis, with results taking several days. In some cases, blood may be drawn at a laboratory.
Other test types include:
HIV antibody tests: These identify HIV antibodies in the body rather than the virus. The immune system produces antibodies in response to virus exposure. These tests can be conducted in a lab or at home using a self-test kit. Most rapid HIV tests and self-tests are antibody tests.
NATs: Nucleic acid tests search for the actual virus in the blood, determining if a person has HIV and the virus's concentration. NATs are employed if there has been exposure and early HIV symptoms.
How often should you get tested for HIV?
The CDC recommends yearly testing for individuals at a higher risk of contracting HIV. Higher-risk scenarios include unprotected sex, sharing needles, sexual contact with an HIV-positive partner, or having other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), hepatitis, or tuberculosis. Individuals engaging in frequent unprotected sex or needle sharing should consider more frequent testing, ideally every 3 to 6 months.
When should I visit Cohen Carec for an HIV screening?
Considering the window period between infection and test detection, it is recommended to undergo a test 2 to 6 weeks post-exposure.
How can a Cohen Care provider help me with an HIV screening?
For HIV screenings, Cohen Care providers order and conduct laboratory testing. If necessary, they may refer patients to specialists for further evaluation and treatment. A negative antigen/antibody test result allows discussions on HIV prevention methods, including PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis) and nPEP (non-occupational Post Exposure Prophylaxis). In the event of a positive result, the provider can guide the patient on the next steps and refer them to a specialist for further treatment.