HIV virus: what is it?

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the human immunodeficiency virus. Infection with the virus is initially asymptomatic or with few symptoms. The symptoms of infection are uncharacteristic and can occur with a cold or other illnesses, making early diagnosis difficult. The virus can be prevented and treated to stop the development of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

Initial symptoms of HIV virus:

enlarged lymph nodes;
fever;
weakness;
muscle and joint pains;
rash.

Weight loss, tiredness and weakness increase over time. It usually takes 8-10 years from HIV infection to the development of AIDS. During the asymptomatic or low-symptomatic period, you can infect others.

HIV testing: when to get tested?

Anyone who suspects they are infected should have an HIV test.

The HIV virus can be transmitted:

through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person, including contact with secretions such as semen, vaginal secretions, pre-ejaculatory fluid, if it comes into contact with a damaged epidermis or mucous membrane (e.g. bitten lip);
by using the same needle as an infected person;
by contact with blood, e.g. during dental treatment or during a fight;
during childbirth or breastfeeding if the mother is infected.

AIDS

AIDS is an acquired immunodeficiency syndrome caused by the HIV virus.

The first symptoms of AIDS are:

constant weakness,
headaches,
nervousness,
recurrent fungal infections.

In this disease, a person becomes susceptible to micro-organisms and bacteria that are harmless to other people because the immune system does not work properly.

Development of AIDS

The development of AIDS can be prevented by stopping the HIV virus from multiplying. This is done with HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy), which inhibits the replication of the virus, restores the immune system and reduces the risk of infecting others. As the drugs do not eradicate the virus, but only inhibit its multiplication in the body, it is necessary to take the drugs for life. Untreated AIDS leads to a weakened immune system and the development of dangerous infections (mycoses) and cancers (e.g. Kaposi's sarcoma, Burkit's lymphoma).

HIV testing: what you should know

If you want to find out if you have been exposed to HIV, it is recommended to take an HIV test.

The p24 antigen

One of the characteristic antigens of HIV is a viral structural protein called p24. High concentrations of p24 are found in the blood serum of newly infected individuals during the short period between infection and the appearance of anti-HIV antibodies, making tests that detect the p24 antigen useful for diagnosing primary HIV infection.

The p24 antigen is released into the blood and cerebrospinal fluid as the virus replicates. It is detectable 2-3 weeks after infection (it must multiply to a suitable, test-detectable level), before antibodies appear. Detection of antibodies allows HIV infection to be confirmed a little later. After the appearance of antibodies, the p24 antigen is in most cases no longer detectable, even in infected individuals.

Therefore, combined tests (COMBO) of anti-HIV antibodies with p24 antigen can reliably diagnose HIV infection in its early stages, rather than tests that detect antibodies alone.

HIV testing

The p24 Anti-HIV Antibody Test is a comprehensive HIV test. The p24 antigen allows the diagnosis of HIV infection as early as 2-3 weeks after infection. The HIV COMBO test is indicated for people who are at risk or suspected of having HIV infection. Testing is mandatory during pregnancy. The 4th generation COMBO screening test is now the standard screening test.

How does the HIV test work?

The test involves taking a blood sample into an EDTA tube:

The skin is disinfected according to the collection procedure.
The nurse applies a tourniquet.
The injection is given.
After the procedure, the tourniquet is removed and a material is applied to protect the injection site.

The sample collection itself takes a few to several seconds. There is no need for any special preparation for the test. You need to come to a healthcare centre in the morning for this test.

If the result of the screening test is inconclusive, the patient will not receive the result, but will be informed that the screening test needs to be repeated and a confirmatory test, i.e. the anti-HIV1/HIV2 antibodies test, will be performed at an additional fee.

Please note: the patient's informed consent for the test is essential.

When do I get the test results?

Non-reactive results available within 1 working day.
It is possible to collect the result at the reception desk of the pre-selected centre.
In the case of an inconclusive/reactive screening test result, the patient will be informed that another (paid) blood sample will be required for confirmatory testing.