ELISA is a standard immunological technique for detecting antibodies or antigens.

In HIV testing, ELISA identifies antibodies produced against HIV‑1 and HIV‑2.

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

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 cost‑effective and sensitive screening tool for HIV infection.

Helps prevent HIV transmission via blood transfusion.

Supports monitoring and management of HIV‑positive patients.