Description
Why It’s Done (Purpose):
1. Early Detection of HIV Infection:
o Used when recent exposure is suspected and antibody/antigen tests may not yet be positive.
o Particularly important in high-risk exposures (e.g., needle stick injuries, unprotected sex).
2. Confirm Indeterminate Screening Results:
o Helps confirm HIV infection when results from antibody or antigen tests are inconclusive.
3. Diagnose Acute HIV Infection:
o Especially when symptoms suggest acute retroviral syndrome (fever, rash, sore throat, fatigue, etc.).
4. Screen Newborns of HIV-Positive Mothers:
o Antibody tests are not reliable in infants due to maternal antibodies, so RNA testing is preferred.
5. Monitor Viral Presence in Certain Cases:
o Sometimes used alongside quantitative PCR for further clinical assessment.
Preparation Guidelines:
• No special preparation required.
• Fasting is not needed.
• Inform your doctor about:
o Recent possible exposure to HIV.
o Any current symptoms or health concerns
