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Assessment of a rapid HIV test strategy during labor: a pilot study from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
S A Nogueira1, J S Lambert, A L Albuquerque
1Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. susie@hucff.ufrj.br
Journal of Human Virology
|March 22, 2002
Summary
Two rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) tests used during labor were accepted by 98% of women. This testing strategy accurately identified HIV cases, performing comparably to standard laboratory methods.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing during labor offers a critical opportunity for timely diagnosis and intervention.
- Assessing the performance and acceptance of rapid HIV tests in labor settings is crucial for effective public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the acceptance and performance of two rapid HIV tests administered to women during labor.
- To determine the prevalence of HIV among pregnant women in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, using rapid testing.
Main Methods:
- Two rapid HIV tests (Determine and Double Check) were employed in three public maternity units.
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot (WB) were used for confirmation of positive and discordant results.
Main Results:
- Of 858 women enrolled, 17 (2%) declined testing. Among 841 tested, 13 were positive by both rapid tests, indicating a 1.5% HIV prevalence.
- The combined results of the two rapid tests demonstrated a 100% positive predictive value.
- Discordant results were further analyzed, with most confirmed negative by standard methods.
Conclusions:
- Rapid HIV testing during labor is highly accepted by pregnant women (98%).
- The combined use of two rapid HIV tests is an efficient strategy for HIV diagnosis during labor, comparable to traditional ELISA and WB methods.
