Question

Which of the following is true about rapid HIV testing?

a. All positive rapid HIV tests require repeat testing for confirmation.
b. Some rapid HIV tests are performed on a urine sample.
c. A negative result following recent sexual activity with an HIV-positive person confirms that HIV is not present.
d. ELISA is a rapid HIV test.

Answer 1

Rapid HIV testing is performed using an indirect ELISA method, where HIV peptides are attached to a well in a plate. All positive results require repeat testing for confirmation due to the possibility of false positives. A negative result following recent sexual activity with an HIV-positive person does not guarantee the absence of HIV.

Step-by-step explanation:

Rapid HIV testing is a screening method that provides quick results. It is typically performed using an indirect ELISA, which is an antibody-based test. The test works by attaching HIV peptides to a well in a plate, and if the patient is HIV positive, anti-HIV antibodies will bind to the peptides and be identified by a second antibody-enzyme conjugate.

All positive rapid HIV tests require repeat testing for confirmation because there is a risk of false-positive results. False positives can occur due to previous infections with other viruses that induce cross-reacting antibodies, leading to potential inaccuracies.

A negative result following recent sexual activity with an HIV-positive person does not confirm that HIV is not present. It is important to undergo regular and periodic testing to ensure accurate results and early detection of HIV infection.