HIV Ab/Ag Screen – RRPL/Saskatoon
Discipline
Microbiology
Overview
Description
- Human Immunodeficiency Viruses 1 and 2 (HIV-1 and HIV-2) are the causative agents of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
- The HIV Antibody/Antigen (Ab/Ag) screen is used for diagnosis of HIV infection. Patient samples found to be reactive via the HIV Ab/Ag screen receive confirmatory testing to confirm diagnosis of HIV, and distinguish between HIV-1 and HIV-2.
Ordering recommendations
- Patients with compatible symptoms and/or exposure risk for HIV infection
Specimen Information
Specimen types accepted
- Serum
Specimen collection container
- Serum separator tubes (SST; gold top)
Collection procedure
- Collect blood in serum separator tube (gold top). Serum must be separated from whole blood by centrifugation within 24h of collection.
Required volume
- 1 SST (gold top) tube, 5mL
Transport and stability
- Serum must be separated from whole blood within 24h of collection. Serum may be shipped at ambient temperature.
Performance
Methodology
- Qualitative immunoassay via Roche Elecsys (Saskatoon) or Abbott Alinity (Regina), (Reactive, Indeterminate, or Non-Reactive)
Days/times performed
Availability
- Routine specimens are tested in Saskatoon or Regina
- Confirmatory testing for reactive screens is completed at RRPL
Maximum laboratory time
Result reporting
- HIV Ab/Ag screen turnaround time of 3 days from receipt at testing lab.
Specimen retention time
- Serum is retained for 3 days after completion of testing
Other information
Any additional comments
- All Indeterminate or Reactive specimens receive confirmatory testing at RRPL.
- Confirmed Positive results are reported to a Medical Health Officer.
Last Updated: October 9, 2024