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Introduction to HIV p24 antigen test 

The p24 antigen with HIV 1 and 2 antibody test is a revolutionary diagnostic tool that can detect both HIV antibodies and p24 antigen. Unlike traditional antibody-only tests, it is an advanced method that figures out HIV-1, two antibodies, and the P24 antigen, detectable as early as 14 days after exposure. They are sometimes called fourth-generation tests. The HIV p24 antigen is a structural protein that causes most HIV viral core, or ‘capsid.’ HIV, or AIDS, is an acquired immunodeficiency syndrome that is spread through direct contact with blood, needles, prick injury, or unprotected sex with a person infected by HIV. Your doctor may suggest an HIV test if they suspect flu-like symptoms in your body, unexplained fever, having a history of unsafe sex, sharing needles to inject drugs, or as a routine investigation for pregnancy. Early diagnosis can help better manage the disease and improve patient outcomes. 

If your doctor has suggested the test, Redcliffe Labs is listed among the best diagnostic centers and diagnosis labs in India. You can book an HIV p24 antigen test at home from our team of well-trained and professional phlebotomists. Our team offers home sample collection services and accurate reports. So, book an HIV p24 antigen test from Healthy India Ki Trusted Labs, Redcliffe Lab. 

Test Details:

When do I need an HIV p24 antigen test?

Doctors often recommend checking your blood for a p24 antigen with HIV 1 and 2 antibody tests. When the patient is first infected with HIV, before their body has a chance to make antibodies to the virus, the patient’s blood has a high level of p24. The human body produces HIV antibodies in response to HIV infection. When the doctors suspect symptoms suggestive of the same, they may suggest an HIV p24 antigen test, as it is accurate 11 days to 1 month after being suspected. Such symptoms include: 

• High-grade unexplained fever: fever and night sweats in the early stages of the HIV infection are normal as they indicate the patient's body’s efforts to kill the invading virus. However, you may also experience other flu-like symptoms such as cough, sore throat, rashes on the skin, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, or muscle and joint pain for a week to a month, creating a need to undergo this test. 
• Come in contact with HIV blood: You may also have an HIV p24 antigen test if you have had unprotected sex and want to know if you are HIV-positive. Besides, needle sharing is used to inject drugs. 
• Ante-natal screening: During pregnancy, your healthcare provider may suggest various tests, including blood tests and ultrasound baby scans. Hence, the HIV p24 antigen test may also be recommended as a routine investigation of pregnancy for a safer experience. 

There are several other scenarios when a healthcare provider suggests the test, such as: 

• Routine test before surgery: The fourth-generation HIV test may also be suggested by your doctor/surgeon as a routine test before surgery to decrease the risk of infection. 
• Having a history of unsafe or unprotected sex: Unprotected sexual intercourse with HIV-positive people can adversely affect your body. Suppose you have a history of unprotected sex. In that case, it can increase your exposure to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so your doctor may recommend the test to get a clear idea. 
• If a needle accidentally sticks you: If you are a healthcare worker or get stuck with a contaminated needle or device, in that case, you should act quickly. Get yourself checked within the first 72 hours. 

No matter the reason, if your doctor has suggested this fourth-generation test based on symptoms, you should get yourself tested. Getting tested in time will help evaluate your body’s condition and take appropriate measures accordingly. 

What preparations are required for the HIV p24 antigen test?

The good thing about the HIV p24 antigen test is that it doesn’t require any special preparation. You can eat or drink as usual and continue your daily activities. However, there are a few instructions to keep in mind to ensure the accuracy of your lab test results. 

• If you take any prescription or over-the-counter medications, kindly inform your doctor before the test. He may ask you to continue or stop taking them completely to get the desired test results. 
• Do not indulge in heavy exercise to avoid hormone fluctuations and ensure accurate test results. 

If you have any questions regarding the test preparation, kindly write them down in your diary and discuss them with your doctor to ensure the measurements are appropriately taken and the test results are accurate. 

What is the procedure for the HIV p24 antigen test?

The 4th generation HIV test is conducted to detect the presence of p24 antigen in the patient’s blood. If your doctor has suggested this test to confirm you have an acute HIV infection, you need not worry. The test is simple and involves the following steps: 

1. The test involves a blood sample. The phlebotomist may tie a band around your arm to make the vein visible. 
2. Before inserting the needle, he may disinfect the site to prevent infection. 
3. The phlebotomist will insert the sterilized needle into the vein of your arm to draw the blood sample. 
4. Then, he will open the band and apply a bandage to the punctured site to prevent it from further getting swollen, preventing excessive bleeding, or preventing infection.
5. Lastly, the phlebotomist will transfer the blood drawn from your vein into a vial or test tube for laboratory testing.

The blood test is simple. However, inserting a needle in your vein poses some risks, including infection, bleeding, bruising, or feeling lightheaded. These signs and symptoms tend to fade away after a few days. If they don’t disappear, seek medical attention immediately. 

What does the HIV p24 test mean?

The HIV-1/2 antigen/antibody combination immunoassay test will have a reactive or nonreactive result. 

• A reactive result means you have HIV and need to take proper medicines and medical advice. Your doctor may also suggest another follow-up test to confirm you have an HIV infection. 

• A nonreactive result means the fluid sample does not contain HIV antigens or antibodies that can react during testing. 

The HIV p24 antigen test results vary from person to person depending on their age, gender, health history, and other things. Besides, the variation of the test results also depends on the test methodology and the instruments being used.

HIV p24 antigen price - Redcliffe Labs

If your doctor has suggested a p24 antigen test, you should not delay, as the results could be drastic. You can book an HIV p24 antigen test without delay from Redcliffe Labs. You can get tested with us at a highly affordable HIV p24 antigen test cost of INR 900. We provide a doorstep sample collection service. Express slots to collect your blood sample within 45 minutes and accurate test reports within a time frame. So, why wait more? Book an HIV p24 antigen test with us now!

P24 antigen with HIV 1&2 Antibody Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Note: We also offer P24 antigen with HIV 1&2 Antibody Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.