Test Overview
An HIV test detects HIV antibodies or antigens or the genetic material (RNA or DNA) of HIV in the blood or another type of sample. This can show if an HIV infection is present (HIV-positive). HIV infects certain white blood cells. They are part of the body's immune system that help fight infections.
Most doctors use a blood test to screen for HIV infection. If the test is positive (meaning that HIV antibodies or antigens are found), a test to detect HIV RNA or DNA will be done to be sure. Sometimes an RNA or DNA test is done at the same time as the first test.
If you think you were recently exposed to HIV, tell your doctor. You may need an RNA or DNA test. Or you may need to be tested again. This is done to make sure that HIV RNA, DNA, antibodies, or antigens don't appear at a later time.
Home tests are available. Follow the instructions carefully. If the result is positive, talk to a doctor as soon as you can. If the result is negative, the test instructions will tell you whether you should repeat the test and when to do it.
