It is a routine procedure during pregnancy. Most adults will undergo screening at some time. Here, an enzyme is added to cause color changes that signal the presence of HIV antibodies. In the Western blot test, the blood is taken in the same way, but the sample is separated with an electrical current and transferred onto a piece of blotting paper. The Western blot test was previously used to confirm the result of the ELISA, but it is no longer recommended, as other tests are now more reliable and enable a faster diagnosis. This very sensitive test was the first one widely used to check for HIV. If the blood contains antibodies to HIV, it will bind with the antigen and cause the cassette’s contents to change color. The blood sample will be added to a cassette that contains the viral protein, called antigen. It checks for certain proteins that the body makes in response to HIV. The ELISA test, also called the EIA for enzyme immunoassay, is used to detect the HIV antibody. Laboratory blood tests can be used to diagnose HIV through detecting certain antibodies or proteins produced by the immune system in response to the virus. Share on Pinterest The ELISA test is a blood antibody test that checks for proteins the body makes if HIV is present. While levels are this low, the body can remain healthy, the individual can expect a normal lifespan, and the virus cannot be transmitted. It is the key to both treatment and prevention.Ĭurrent treatment can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels. Testing is the first step in accessing effective ways of managing the condition. With early diagnosis, early treatment is possible. Testing and diagnosis are an important part of staying healthy with HIV.

Now, most laboratories use an immunoassay for the HIVp24 antigen and antibodies to HIV-1 and 2, followed by a confirmatory immunoassay to distinguish between HIV-1 and HIV-2. Since 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recommended discontinuing the Western blot test. However, advances in technology mean that other methods are now commonly used. In the past, the Western blot test was used to confirm the results of an ELISA test.

The Western blot and ELISA tests are two blood antibody tests that may be used to detect HIV.

Western blot hiv