Detecting HIV through testing, commonly referred to as HIV screening, remains the sole conclusive method for HIV diagnosis.
The timeframe for receiving HIV test results can differ, and a universally fixed duration cannot be established.
Various tests examine your blood or bodily fluids to identify HIV. This process takes time since the development of antibodies or the viral load to detectable levels is gradual, making immediate diagnosis from initial symptoms implausible without testing.
But, how long does it take for HIV test results to be available?
How Long Do HIV Test Results Take
Today, there are several options for HIV testing, each differing in the time required for results. For example, self-test HIV kits can deliver results within about 20 minutes using a blood or oral fluid sample. Rapid antibody tests, on the other hand, often take around 30 minutes for outcomes. If the result is positive, further screenings using the same blood or oral fluid sample are necessary to confirm the outcome. In some instances, it may take up to 6 months for enough antibodies to accumulate to detect the virus.
Home HIV Tests
Two main types of home HIV tests are available: antigen/antibody tests and antibody tests.
Antigen/antibody test: This test examines a blood sample to detect both HIV antigens and antibodies. Antigens elicit an immune response indicating a potential infection, while the immune system produces antibodies upon encountering viruses like HIV.
Antibody test: This test detects antibodies generated in response to HIV. Antibody tests using blood samples drawn from a vein can identify HIV faster than those using fingerprick blood or oral fluid samples. Results generally take around 30 minutes or less.
The result timeframe also varies based on the testing method. Oral swabs can take 20 to 40 minutes, while fingerprick blood samples sent to a laboratory may require up to 7 business days. Urine or vaginal swabs, which are used to test for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can take several days.
Following test instructions meticulously is crucial, especially when done without professional supervision.
HIV RNA Test
The HIV RNA test, a form of nucleic acid test (NAT), detects HIV’s genetic material in the blood. Results can be available as early as 10 days after exposure. Since it detects the virus directly rather than antibodies, it’s highly effective for diagnosing recent exposures, providing accurate results within under two weeks to a maximum of one month.
CVS HIV Test
Similar to other at-home HIV tests, the CVS test delivers results within 15-20 minutes. The newer antigen/antibody combination tests, or “fourth generation” tests from CVS, can detect HIV in 99% of individuals tested 13 to 42 days post-exposure. Studies have shown that the CVS HIV test offers some of the highest detection rates among current screening methods.
HIV Drugs
HIV treatment employs antiretroviral therapy (ART), a highly effective medication regimen. ART is recommended for everyone diagnosed with HIV and should begin immediately after a positive diagnosis.
The timing for commencing HIV drug treatment hinges on healthcare provider recommendations to achieve an undetectable viral load. Adherence to the prescribed HIV medication regimen helps manage viral loads and maintain high CD4 cell counts. Missing treatments could allow the virus to multiply rapidly, thus compromising the immune system.