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Pitfalls in HIV testing. Application and limitations of current tests
1Department of Pediatric Subspecialities, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA 17822-1339, USA.
Postgraduate Medicine
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot are common HIV tests detecting antibodies. While highly accurate, understanding potential false results is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot are standard laboratory methods for detecting HIV infection.
- Both assays target the detection of antibodies produced by the body in response to HIV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the principles and applications of ELISA and Western blot assays in HIV diagnostics.
- To highlight the accuracy of these tests and discuss the occurrence of false-positive and false-negative results.
Main Methods:
- ELISA utilizes enzyme-labeled antibodies to detect antigen-antibody complexes, resulting in a color change.
- Western blot analysis identifies antibodies against specific HIV antigens, serving as a confirmatory test.
Main Results:
- Licensed ELISA tests demonstrate over 98% sensitivity and specificity for HIV detection.
- Despite high accuracy, both ELISA and Western blot assays can yield inaccurate results.
Conclusions:
- Physicians must be aware of factors contributing to erroneous HIV test outcomes.
- Individual patient history and laboratory testing criteria are vital for interpreting results accurately.