Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can be detected in more than one way. The most common way for HIV to be detected and diagnosed is enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), also known as the HIV antibody test. This test can be done on blood, saliva or urine.
Antibody Test
Once someone has been infected with HIV, his body begins to produce HIV antibodies. Each person will produce antibodies at a different rate. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to six months for the body to make enough antibodies to be detected. That's why it is important to be tested more than once.
Antigen Test
The HIV antigen test checks for the P24 protein of HIV that causes the body to produce antibodies. These levels jump quickly after someone is first infected and then drop below detectable levels. The antigen test can be done 1 to 3 weeks after infection.
RNA Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test
The PCR test looks for HIV genetic material itself, not anything produced as a result of infection. The RNA test is most often used to test donated blood. It can detect HIV within 9 to 11 days of infection.
DNA PCR Test
The DNA PCR test is used to test babies born to HIV+ mothers. This test can detect HIV 2 to 3 weeks after infection.
Test Results
Test results can be available in as little as 20 minutes and as long as a few days. Anyone who has a positive test will need to be tested again to make sure the test did not give a false positive.
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