Human Immunodeficiency Virus I And II (HIV) In Rajkot - Price & Details

HIV has two types: HIV-I & HIV-II. Since the morphology of both these types is different, one single test cannot efficiently detect the presence of both viral antigens in your bloodstream. If there is a test targeted for HIV I, HIV II might go undetected and vice versa. Therefore, two tests are conducted to effectively screen the presence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in your blood.

The HIV I & II test package available on PharmEasy includes the following tests:

• HIV antibody screening test - Right after HIV infection has occurred, antibodies are produced within 2-8 weeks. The HIV antibody detection test can be used as a screening test for HIV I & II.
• HIV antigen/antibody combination test - The combination test for HIV antigen and antibody is another confirmatory test prescribed by the doctors. This test involves the detection of both the HIV antigen and the antibody produced against this antigen.

• Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) - This test is used to detect HIV viral RNA in the blood sample. It also gives the amount of HIV (HIV viral load) present in your body. This test is the most effective as it can detect the presence of HIV within 10 days of infection.

HIV is an epidemic that has started since 1981. Timely detection of HIV has always been an issue because there are no visible symptoms during initial infection. When the HIV infection progresses to AIDS, that's when the symptoms start appearing. HIV I & II tests might help in the timely detection of this virus so that the patient can avail of the existing treatment options.

You can go for an HIV I & II test if you are having the following symptoms:

• Sudden weight loss
• Mouth ulcers
• Dry cough
• Fever, nausea and fatigue
• Opportunistic infections like pneumonia and skin rashes.
• Swollen lymph nodes

As mentioned earlier, the above-mentioned symptoms usually occur when HIV has progressed to AIDS. However, some symptoms may also occur in the initial stage of infection. Therefore, consult your doctor immediately.

There is no particular test preparation for this test. As there is no fasting required for HIV I & II test, you can comfortably have your regular meals throughout the procedure.

During the HIV I & II Test

After you have booked your HIV I and II tests through PharmEasy, an experienced phlebotomist will come to your home for sample collection. First, your vein will be located using a vein finder. Then, using sterile syringes and gloves, blood will be drawn into a clean collection tube. You can rest assured that the samples will be transported safely without any contamination.