Window Period

Does anyone know what generation the rapid HIV test is (Clearview HIV 1/2 STAT-PAK).  How accurate is it at 9 weeks?

[Teak]

Clearview is a 3rd generation test approved May 2006

[Chris208]

What's the difference between generations?

[reallyregret]

Hi Teak,

Don't mean any disrespect. Would only like to check with you if what i know is correct or wrong.

From what i know, rapid tests uses synthetic peptides as their test analyte, which is similar to 2nd generation tests. While 3rd generation tests uses some sort of a recombinant molecular particle as the test analyte.

So should rapid tests (which generally uses the gp41 synthetic peptide) such as clearview be closer to 2nd gen tests instead?

Thanks.


May God bless


reallyregret

[scardycat870]

What generation would Oraquick be?

[jennykate]

I don't think it matters what generation the test is...they all will detect hiv in the right time frame meaning 3months after a possible exposure. Someone correct me if I'm wrong please.

[reallyregret]

Hi jennykate,

From what i know, the generation wouldn't matter if the person was negative to start with, and has tested at 3 months. But it would matter alot especially for people who are truly infected. Because the increased sensitivity (the ability of 3rd gen tests to be able to detect both IgM and IgG antibodies compared to only IgG which previous generations tests for) allows for better detection ability during the first few weeks of infection.
That would allow for earlier treatment and better risk measures to be taken for sexual activities.

Thus, logically, if you tested negative at 6 weeks, you would be more comforted to know that your test was a 3rd gen instead of a 2nd gen. Of course, still, 3 months is still the period necessary for it to be conclusive.


May God bless


reallyregret

[Teak]

Oral quick is 3rd generation.

[Teak]

Those that just had an exposure and test positive don't start meds immediately. It may be years before they would have to take ARVs.

[Teak]

You are correct at 3 months it doesn't matter what generation the HIV test is.