Rapid Tests

Good day, Doctors.

Can you tell me if the rapid tests currently used in the US screen for HIV-1, Type O and HIV-2?  This would put my mind at great ease if so.  

I know that the Type O and HIV-2 are rare, but for anxiety and a bit of OCD, I would want to be sure I am covering all the bases.  

Thank you.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

The rapid HIV tests currently used in the US all are very effective for detection of all types of HIV-1, performing as well as the somewhat more time consuming laboratory based tests..  They do detect some HIV-2 infections but not with quite as high a sensitivity as HIV-1 because they may not yield positive tests results on confirmatory testing.  I know little about type O HIV-1 but I would be very surprised if they were not also detected accurately and with great sensitivity by currently available tests.

HIV-2 is extraordinarily rare in the US and, for practical purposes, is only seen in persons who have traveled or who have partners who have traveled overseas (Africa) where, even then, most infections are HIV-1.

If your tests are negative, my advice would be to try to not worry.  Hope this helps.  EWH

[canutellme]

Also, would this apply to oral test as well as the finger stick test?  Thank you.

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Yes, the performance of all of the rapid tests is about the same.  EWH

[canutellme]

Thank you for your responses.  In light of new facts surrounding the incident I am concerned about, would Group N be detected in any available antibody tests used currently in the US?  Thanks your time.

[ExtremeStress]

all of his previous answers answer the question you just asked. quit finding new information, because that means you are searching to deep. you are going to kill yourself mentally.