HIV Rapid Test

HIV 1/2 rapid test is a one step lateral flow test designed to qualitatively detect antibodies to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) type-1 and/or type-2 in serum, or plasma or whole blood. HIV is the etiologic agent of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The main serology target for the detection of HIV infection is based on antibody reactivity to the envelope transmembrane protein: gp41 for HIV-1 and gp36 for HIV-2. The transmembrane protein is highly immunogenic and elicits a strong and sustained antibody response in individuals infected with HIV. Therefore, detection of HIV antibodies in serum, plasma or whole blood is the most efficient and common way to determine HIV infection. HIV 1/2 rapid tests are available as cassette and dipstick formats.