Question 1

What is HIV-1 Infection?

Accepted Answer

HIV-1 infection is a viral disease that attacks and weakens the immune system by destroying CD4 cells. It is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1, which is transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The HIV 1/2 Antigen and Antibodies Fourth Generation test is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects both the p24 viral antigen and HIV antibodies for early and accurate detection.

Question 2

What causes HIV-1 infection?

Accepted Answer

HIV-1 infection is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1, a retrovirus that attacks the immune system by targeting CD4 T-cells. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. Common transmission routes include unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes, receiving contaminated blood transfusions, and from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

Question 3

What is the best test for HIV-1 infection?

Accepted Answer

The HIV 1/2 Antigen and Antibodies Fourth Generation test is the most important test for HIV-1 infection because it detects both the p24 viral antigen and antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2. This dual detection method significantly shortens the window period for diagnosis, allowing the test to identify infections as early as 2-4 weeks after exposure, compared to older antibody-only tests that required 3 months. The test screens for HIV-1 groups M and O as well as HIV-2, providing comprehensive coverage of all major HIV strains.

Question 4

When should I get tested for HIV-1 infection?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have had unprotected sex with a new or multiple partners, shared needles or drug injection equipment, have been diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection, or believe you may have been exposed to HIV. Testing is also recommended if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, have experienced symptoms like unexplained fever, night sweats, or swollen lymph nodes, or if your partner has tested positive for HIV. For high-risk individuals, the CDC recommends testing at least once a year.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of HIV-1 infection?

Accepted Answer

Early HIV-1 infection often causes flu-like symptoms 2-4 weeks after exposure, including fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, rash, muscle aches, and headaches. These acute symptoms typically last 1-2 weeks and then disappear as the virus enters a chronic phase. Many people experience no symptoms for years while the virus continues to damage their immune system. Without treatment, later-stage symptoms may include rapid weight loss, recurring fever, extreme fatigue, prolonged swelling of lymph glands, diarrhea lasting more than a week, sores in the mouth or genitals, and unusual infections or cancers.

Question 6

Who is at risk for HIV-1 infection?

Accepted Answer

People at higher risk include those who have unprotected anal or vaginal sex, have multiple sexual partners, have other sexually transmitted infections, share needles or syringes for drug use, or have received blood transfusions before 1985. Men who have sex with men, people with HIV-positive partners, and sex workers face elevated risk. Healthcare workers exposed to contaminated needles or bodily fluids also have occupational risk. Babies born to HIV-positive mothers who do not receive preventive treatment are at risk of vertical transmission.

Question 7

What happens if HIV-1 infection is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated HIV-1 infection progressively destroys the immune system, eventually leading to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), typically within 8-10 years. As CD4 cell counts drop below 200 cells per cubic millimeter, the body becomes vulnerable to opportunistic infections like pneumocystis pneumonia, tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, and fungal infections that healthy immune systems easily fight off. People with AIDS also face increased risk of certain cancers, including Kaposi sarcoma and lymphomas. Without antiretroviral therapy, AIDS is eventually fatal, but modern treatment can prevent progression and allow people with HIV to live normal lifespans.

Question 8

Can HIV-1 infection be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, HIV-1 infection is diagnosed with blood tests that detect either HIV antibodies, HIV antigens, or both. The 4th generation HIV test is the most reliable blood test because it screens for both p24 antigen (a viral protein) and antibodies that your body produces in response to the infection. This combination blood test can detect HIV as early as 2-4 weeks after exposure. Some rapid tests use finger-stick blood samples and provide results in 20 minutes, while laboratory blood tests offer the highest accuracy and can quantify viral load and CD4 counts for monitoring treatment.

Question 9

How is HIV-1 infection treated?

Accepted Answer

HIV-1 infection is treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART), a combination of medications that suppress viral replication and prevent the virus from destroying immune cells. Most people take a daily pill containing 2-3 different antiretroviral drugs that target HIV at different stages of its life cycle. When taken consistently, ART reduces the viral load to undetectable levels, allowing the immune system to recover and preventing transmission to others. Treatment also includes regular monitoring of CD4 counts and viral load, management of side effects, and prevention of opportunistic infections. With proper treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives with near-normal life expectancy.

Question 10

How can I prevent HIV-1 infection?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent HIV-1 infection by using condoms consistently during vaginal, anal, and oral sex, limiting your number of sexual partners, and never sharing needles or syringes. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily medication that reduces HIV risk by more than 90% for high-risk individuals. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent infection if started within 72 hours after potential exposure. Getting tested regularly for HIV and other STIs, choosing less risky sexual behaviors, and treating other sexually transmitted infections promptly also reduce transmission risk. For HIV-positive individuals, maintaining an undetectable viral load through ART prevents transmission to partners.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support my health with HIV-1 infection?

Accepted Answer

If you have HIV-1 infection, maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports your immune system and treatment effectiveness. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to maintain proper nutrition and body weight. Get regular exercise, aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, and manage stress through meditation, yoga, or counseling. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as these weaken your immune system. Take your antiretroviral medications exactly as prescribed without missing doses. Stay current with vaccinations and preventive healthcare, practice good hygiene to avoid infections, and maintain regular communication with your healthcare team about any new symptoms or concerns.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

HIV-1 Infection Blood Test

What is HIV-1 Infection?

What causes HIV-1 infection?

What is the best test for HIV-1 infection?

When should I get tested for HIV-1 infection?

References

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