4th Generation HIV Test – HIV 1/2 Antigen & Antibodies with Reflexes

Formal Name of the Test:
HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation, with Reflexes

Other Names Used:
HIV-1/O/2, 4th Generation, Fourth Generation HIV, 4th Generation HIV, HIV Antigen/Antibody, HIV-1, HIV-2, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, p24

Sample Required:
Serum

Test Overview:

This test is used to diagnose HIV-1 from HIV-2 and to distinguish HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection, especially acute infection. It is in line with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s HIV diagnostic algorithm. It is safe to use in adults, including pregnant women, as well as children over the age of two.

This test detects acute HIV-1 infection based on the presence of the p24 antigen before seroconversion, allowing for an earlier diagnosis than previous assays. Based on antibodies, it can also identify HIV-1 and HIV-2 post-seroconversion. If the antigen/antibody test for HIV-1 and HIV-2 is positive, an antibody-based HIV-1 and HIV-2 test is performed (at an additional cost) to confirm infection and determine whether it is caused by HIV-1 or HIV-2. During acute infection, however, the HIV-1/HIV-2 distinction test will be negative (prior to the development of specific antibodies). If the antibody-based HIV-1/HIV-2 test is negative, the blood specimen will be reflex-tested for the presence of HIV-1

Test Preparation:
There is no need for any prior preparation.

Test Performed at:
Quest Diagnostics, Test Code 91431
Click here to go to Quest Diagnostics page for this test