HIV‑1 is the most common strain worldwide, while HIV‑2 is less common and mainly found in West Africa.

The test identifies antibodies produced by the immune system in response to HIV infection.

Clinical uses include:

Screening for HIV infection in individuals and blood donors.

Diagnosing acute or chronic HIV infection.

Supporting public health programs for HIV prevention.

Positive results require confirmatory testing (Western Blot, PCR, or ELISA/CLIA).

Early detection is critical for timely initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Analyte: Antibodies to HIV‑1 and HIV‑2 in serum/plasma.

Normal Result: Negative (no antibodies detected).

Abnormal Findings:

Positive HIV antibodies: Indicates HIV infection (requires confirmatory testing).

False negatives: Possible in early infection (window period before antibody development).

Clinical Use:

Provides a screening tool for HIV infection.

Helps prevent HIV transmission via blood transfusion.

Supports monitoring and management of HIV‑positive patients.