This test should be ordered only as a confirmation for a previously positive HIV EIA screening test
Preferred Specimen(s) 1 mL serum
Instructions Tube must be labeled with patient identifier
Transport Container Plastic screw-cap vial or original collection tube with the patient’s name or ID number
Transport Temperature
- Refrigerated 3 days,
- -20oC Long term
Reject Criteria
- Specimens that are not properly labeled with patient identifier
- Gross hemolysis
- Hyperlipemia
Methodology Western Blot
Clinical Significance The etiological agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has been recognized as a retrovirus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1). The virus is believed to be transmitted by sexual contact, blood transfusion, feto-maternal transmission, breast feeding and intravenous drug abuse. The presence of circulating antibodies to the virus indicates prior exposure of the individual to viral antigen(s). The presence of antibody to HIV is not in itself diagnostic of AIDS. Likewise, a non-reactive test result does not exclude the possibility of exposure to or infection with HIV. Specimens that screen positive and are repeatedly reactive are confirmed by Western Blot.