The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) was first discovered in 1981 in the United States. Since the original discovery, doctors and scientists have been constantly researching to understand the virus and come up with possible treatments for patients who have been infected with HIV. While HIV is still a prevalent Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) today, advancements in medicine have allowed for treatments that can greatly extend the lifespan of a HIV patient, and to detect the presence of HIV strains in the body before it develops into AIDS.
Individuals who are sexually active are recommended to go for regular HIV testing in STD clinics in Singapore to ensure early treatment if they are infected. This article will cover the basics that you need to know about HIV tests and how they work to ensure quick and accurate results.
The process of an HIV test
Before the test is administered, you will have a consultation with your STD doctor for them to understand your risk of infection. During this consultation, you can raise up any concerns you may have about the test, or ask questions about HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
There are two main types of HIV tests in Singapore, the 3rd generation test and the 4th generation test – the main difference between the two is the way HIV is detected.
The 3rd generation HIV test (ELISA test) detect the presence of antibodies, which is the substance that the body produces in response to the virus. As antibodies are not immediately produced when the body is infected, this test is only recommended a minimum of one month after exposure. A confirmation test can be administered 3 months after exposure to ascertain the results.
Besides detecting the presence of antibodies, the 4th generation HIV test (HIV Duo Test) also detect antigens, or the proteins that come from the virus itself. Since antigens can be detected more quickly than antibodies, this test can be administered a minimum of 21 days after exposure. It is great for patients who would like to know the results earlier, though it is more expensive than the 3rd generation test. This test is recommended by UK National Guidelines for HIV Testing 2008.
For both tests, blood will need to be drawn. If you have a fear of needles or other similar issues with regards to the test, your doctor may instead advise you to do an oral test, which also tests for antibodies, but may not be as accurate as a blood test.
The results of the blood tests will take approximately 1 to 3 days. After which, the STD doctor will inform you of your results. Should the results come up positive, the doctor will advise you on the potential impact HIV will have on your life, and the medication you would need to take.
If you fear that you may have been recently exposed to HIV, it is recommended that you do not wait to have an HIV test. Instead, opt for the HIV PEP treatment in Singapore to help prevent the HIV infection.
For any further questions about HIV testing, do contact our clinic at 6802 7208.
