Diagnosis of AIDS and HIV Infection
Screening for HIV infection is most commonly done by testing blood for HIV
antibodies. A newer test, the Orasure test, involves collecting secretions between
the cheek and gum and evaluating them for HIV antibodies. Orasure is essentially
as accurate as a blood test, and, because it doesn't involve a needle stick, it
is favored by many individuals. Orasure is available through physicians’ offices
and many public health clinics. Finally, a new urine test available for screening,
although if the test is positive, blood tests need to be performed for confirmation
of the presence of HIV.
In 1996, a home HIV blood test (called Home Access) became available to the
public. These home kits are available in pharmacies and by mail. The kit contains
a few sharp tools called lancets, a piece of blotting paper marked with a unique
identification number and a prepaid return envelope with a protective pouch. After
pricking the finger with the lancet, a few drops of blood are blotted onto the paper,
sealed into the envelope and sent to the address on the envelope. In about a week,
the person calls a toll-free number to get the results of the test.
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