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HIV Antibody Test
Also known as: AIDS test, AIDS screen, HIV serology
Formally known as: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibody test
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Common Questions
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1. What are the symptoms of HIV infection?
2. What are the symptoms of AIDS?
3. What are the treatments for HIV/AIDS?
4. Should I tell anyone else of my test results?
5. Can you use the HIV antibody test to detect HIV in newborns?
1. What are the symptoms of HIV infection?
The only reliable way to tell if you are infected with HIV is to be tested. This is because there may be no symptoms of acute infection, or they may be very similar to symptoms of other illnesses, such as flu.
2. What are the symptoms of AIDS?
The symptoms of AIDS are similar to those of other illnesses. Many people with HIV do not experience symptoms due to immune deficiency for 9 years or more after infection.
3. What are the treatments for HIV/AIDS?
Currently, there is no cure for HIV or AIDS. However, there are therapies that can help. The US CDC's booklet, called Living with HIV/AIDS, is available online.
4. Should I tell anyone else of my test results?
Yes. If your test is positive for HIV, it is wise to you tell your healthcare providers and important that you tell all current and future sex partners and/or anyone with whom you share needles. Counselling services are available that will help you to inform the people who need to know. For more information, visit the US CDC's Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention website for their HIV Counselling, Testing, and Referral Guidelines and Partner Counselling and Referral Services Guidance.
5. Can you use the HIV antibody test to detect HIV in newborns?
No. Because maternal antibodies are transferred from mother to baby and stay in the newborn’s system for 6–12 months, a different test must be used. This test is called the HIV DNA test.
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This page was last modified on
May 20, 2004.
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