Expert: Terry B - 3/31/2009

Question
My question is about HIV testing. I have been reading about it on the web and there is a lot of mixed information.

Most of the time, when someone asks about how long to wait before an HIV test is effective.. the answer is 3 month and another at 6 month. But from what I have read, this was the case with the old 1st generation tests and it seems they window has been considerably reduced by the 2nd, 3th and 4th generation tests (some pages say that the 4th generation tests are effective after 2 weeks… other say after 28 days…).
 
Do you have information on this subject, can you clarify what the window for a 4th generation test is, for example for the Abbott AxSYM-HIV Ag/AB test?

Answer
Dear Thomas:

Peace.  There's one reliable source for information on testing.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (www.fda.gov) reviews and approves tests for HIV as well as many other items.  Specifically, the tests approved for HIV can be found at http://www.fda.gov/cber/products/testkits.htm
and related details can be found by following specific tests at that page for the context and label under which approval occurs.

Every HIV test should include counseling by someone familiar with the benefits and limitations of the test, as well as prevention education.  Technically, the test is only approved as labeled, though clinicians sometimes express opinions as to the validity of the test as they have experienced in practice or collegial discussions.  

Best to you and yours,

Terry