Do I need a HIV 1 & 2 Antigen-Antibody test?
Do you want to know your HIV status or have had a potential exposure? Whether you're seeking peace of mind, preparing for a new relationship, or following health guidelines, understanding your HIV status is an important step in taking control of your sexual health.
This test detects HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies and antigens in your blood, which may indicate current or past HIV infection. It works by identifying your body's immune response to the virus.
Knowing your status can help you make informed decisions about your health and relationships. Early detection is associated with better health outcomes, as modern treatments can help manage the virus effectively. This test forms part of Listen Health's sexual health screening, giving you clarity and empowering you to prioritise your wellbeing.
What is it?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which are crucial for immune defense. If left untreated, HIV can lead to the disease AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
HIV is primarily transmitted through contact with certain body fluids from a person who has HIV. These fluids include blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The virus can be spread through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding, and less commonly through blood transfusions.
Once HIV enters the body, it targets and invades CD4 cells. The virus uses the machinery of these cells to replicate, which eventually leads to the destruction of the infected cells. Over time, as more CD4 cells are destroyed, the immune system becomes weaker, making the body more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. The progression from HIV to AIDS can take several years, during which the virus continues to replicate and damage the immune system.
Early symptoms of HIV infection can include flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and fatigue. However, many people may not show symptoms for years. The only way to know if someone has HIV is through testing. HIV tests can detect the virus or the antibodies produced in response to it.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the standard treatment for HIV. ART involves taking a combination of HIV medicines every day. These medicines do not cure HIV, but they can control the virus, allowing individuals to live longer, healthier lives and reducing the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
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Bekker LG, Beyrer C, Mgodi N, et al. HIV Infection. Nature Reviews. Disease Primers. 2023;9(1):42. doi:10.1038/s41572-023-00452-3.
Sleasman JW, Goodenow MM. HIV-1 Infection. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. 2003;111(2 Suppl):S582-92. doi:10.1067/mai.2003.91.
Volberding PA, Deeks SG. Antiretroviral Therapy and Management of HIV Infection. Lancet (London, England). 2010;376(9734):49-62. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(10)60676-9.
Deeks SG, Overbaugh J, Phillips A, Buchbinder S. HIV Infection. Nature Reviews. Disease Primers. 2015;1:15035. doi:10.1038/nrdp.2015.35.
Maartens G, Celum C, Lewin SR. HIV Infection: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Treatment, and Prevention. Lancet (London, England). 2014;384(9939):258-71. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(14)60164-1.
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AHPRA Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and should not replace individual medical advice. Always discuss your test results and health concerns with a registered healthcare practitioner.