Early HIV detection, viral load monitoring, and testing for the drug-resistance of particular strains of HIV may improve patient outcomes and reduce disease transmission. Clinical laboratory tests remain critically important at every stage of the HIV-care continuum, as they provide clinicians with answers that allow them to manage patients more effectively.
Siemens Healthineers offers HIV testing solutions for early identification of HIV-positive individuals that help clinicians care for and treat patients and provide knowledge needed for prevention. Siemens Healthineers has solutions for:
- Diagnostic laboratories, with assays for the Atellica® IM Analyzer and ADVIA Centaur® Immunoassay Systems
HIV Ag/Ab Combo (CHIV) Assay
The CDC and European guidelines recommend the use of a fourth-generation HIV screening test for maximum sensitivity and specificity.
The CHIV assay available on the Atellica® IM Analyzer and ADVIA Centaur Immunoassay Systems is a fourth-generation HIV assay offering both excellent sensitivity and specificity. It was designed with patented AE technology to meet current laboratory requirements and future needs for accurate HIV diagnostic testing. The assay offers:
- Earlier detection capability using a fully automated qualitative combo HIV assay that simultaneously detects the presence of HIV-1 p24 antigen and antibodies to HIV-1 (including group O) and HIV-2 in serum and plasma
- Elimination of sample carryover and associated potential for false-positive results with use of disposable sample tips and a one-way workflow
HIV Risk Factors
Recognize the risk factors to help prevent the spread of HIV.
According to the World Health Organization, primary risk factors for HIV include unprotected vaginal or anal sex; sharing contaminated needles, syringes, and other injecting equipment; unsafe blood transfusions and medical procedures; accidental needle-stick injuries; and other sexually transmitted infections, such as syphilis, herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and bacterial vaginosis.1