Description
Why It’s Done (Purpose):
1. Early Detection of HIV Infection:
o P24 antigen can be detected as early as 2–3 weeks after exposure, before antibodies appear.
o Antibodies usually develop within 3–8 weeks of infection.
2. Screening Tool:
o Used for routine HIV screening in healthcare settings, blood donation centers, or before surgery.
o Recommended for individuals with high-risk behavior or possible HIV exposure.
3. Confirm or Rule Out HIV Infection:
o Part of diagnostic protocols for patients with symptoms suggestive of HIV or unexplained immune deficiency.
4. Monitoring High-Risk Individuals:
o Such as healthcare workers exposed to blood/body fluids or individuals with an HIV-positive partner.
Preparation Guidelines:
• No special preparation is needed.
• Fasting is not required.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any recent potential HIV exposure, high-risk behavior, or existing medical conditions.
• If you’re taking pre-exposure (PrEP) or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), let your doctor know, as it may influence test results.
