Question

Which of the following tests is used to verify the presence of antibodies against the HIV virus

A) the compliment fixation test
B) electrophoresis neutralization test
C) the antibody neutralization test
D) the western blot test
E) the fluorescent antibody test

Answer 1

The Western blot test is used to confirm the presence of antibodies against the HIV virus following a preliminary positive result from a test like the ELISA.

Step-by-step explanation:

The test used to verify the presence of antibodies against the HIV virus is the Western blot test. This confirmatory test is performed after an initial positive result from a serological test, such as the ELISA.

During the Western blot process, the HIV proteins are separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and then transferred to a nitrocellulose strip. The patient's serum is applied, and if antibodies to HIV are present, they will bind to the specific viral proteins on the strip. The bound HIV antibodies are then visualized using a conjugate enzyme and chromogen, confirming the presence of HIV infection.