General Information About the Test
Test Process and Preparation
Because ELISA tests intended for screening are highly sensitive, they can sometimes yield false-positive results. Therefore, when the result is positive, more advanced confirmatory tests such as Western Blot or PCR are absolutely required to confirm the diagnosis.
When a virus (e.g., HIV) enters the body, a certain amount of time must pass for the immune system to produce antibodies against it at a level detectable by the ELISA test. This period is called the window period; therefore, tests performed just 1-2 days after suspicious contact may not be reliable even if they are negative.
It is performed using a standard blood sample drawn from the arm veins. Fasting is not required.
The information on this page is for informational purposes only. The results of medical tests must be evaluated by specialist physicians.
