AIDS, stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is a dangerous viral infection, which has no cure or treatment.

Prevention is the only way to get rid of this viral infection.

AIDS testing is a simple process in which you are advised to give a blood sample for the test. This process of testing for AIDS is some times known as AIDS serology.

The main aim of AIDS testing is to evaluate the presence of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) in your immune system. It is also used to know the effect of this virus on the immune system of your body.AIDS Testing

Serology is one of the branches of immunology which mainly deals with the characteristics and contents of blood serum.

AIDS testing is mandatory for these specific people:

Pregnant women: If you are pregnant, then it is very important for you to get tested for AIDS. There is a chance for the transmission of the virus from you to your unborn baby.

If it is detected in the initial stages, it can be prevented and you can protect your baby from the dreadful virus. Perinatal HIV transmission is mainly due to lack of voluntary counseling of AIDS during pregnancy.

New born babies: Even though you take proper measures to prevent AIDS, some times this virus can transmit to your offspring within 18 months after the birth.

After 18 months, the antibodies that transmit from the mother tend to shed. So it is very essential for testing AIDS in newborn babies till 12 to 18 months after their birth.

Youth: Children between 12 to 25 years are given special counseling about AIDS. Adolescent age is very crucial period in your child’s life. So it is very essential to educate them about the causes and precautionary measures for AIDS.

Regular testing for ADIS is always advisable. AIDS testing will not only provide the information about the infection but it is also helpful in identifying other infections in your blood like hepatitis.

What are the different techniques involved in AIDS testing?

There are several methods in detecting the anti bodies responsible for HIV virus. Some of the methods are listed below.

Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA): This is the first test which is used to detect the HIV virus in the blood. If antibodies are present, then the test is normally repeated.

If you get negative results in this test, then you are recommended for other tests for confirmation. In most cases, this test will show positive results, if HIV antibodies are present in your blood.

Western blot: This test is more complicated when compared to ELISA. After two positive results of ELISA, this test is preferred.

Polymerase chain reaction: This test is performed to find the genetic material of HIV in your blood. This test is mostly not preferred as it requires skilled technicians and the cost of the equipment used in this test is very expensive.

Indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA): This test is also used to confirm the results of ELISA. It is very expensive and is not commonly used.

Prevention is always better and efficient method than the treatment, so try to avoid this dreadful infection with regular check ups and by following proper precautionary measures.