Clinical background:
Screening test for HIV infection (4th generation assay). A positive test must be confirmed by other tests before definitive diagnosis can be made. The test may be positive 2-4 weeks after infection. However to fully exclude recent infection a repeat sample should be sent at least 3 months after suspected exposure.
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted blood.
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml
Minimum volume adult:
5ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
Possible up to 5 days.
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
May be negative for up to 3 months following infection (window period).
Reference ranges:
None available
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced Documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (UK SMI V11)
Other info:
N/A