HIV AG & AB 4TH GENERATION (COMBO)
🚀 Early Detection (p24 Antigen)📋 Test Specifications
- Report Availability: Next Day Evening (After 6 PM).
- Sample Required: Serum (Blood Sample).
- Methodology: CLIA / CMIA (4th Generation).
- Targets: HIV-1 & 2 Antibodies + p24 Antigen.
- Fasting Required: No.
- Confidentiality: 100% Assured.
What is HIV Ag & Ab 4th Generation?
This is the most advanced screening test currently available for HIV. It is often called the Combo or Duo Test because it looks for two things at once:
- Antibodies: The immune system's response to the virus (like the standard ELISA test).
- p24 Antigen: A viral protein that makes up the core of the virus itself.
💡 The p24 Antigen Advantage
Why is this better than normal ELISA?
After infection, it takes time for your body to make antibodies. However, the viral protein (p24 Antigen) appears in the blood much earlier typically days or weeks before antibodies develop.
By detecting this antigen, the 4th Generation test can identify an HIV infection during the acute stage, much sooner than older tests.
When Should You Take This Test?
This test is recommended for:
- Recent Exposure: If you suspect exposure within the last 2-4 weeks.
- Routine Screening: It provides higher accuracy than 3rd generation tests.
- Peace of Mind: If you want the most reliable screening available without waiting months.
🔒 Your Privacy Matters
At Sanovra Lab, HIV testing is treated with the highest level of discretion. Your reports are password-protected and shared directly with you via WhatsApp/Email. We do not share your data.
Window Period (4th Gen vs Old Tests)
Comparison:
• Older Tests (Antibody only): Detects after 3-12 weeks.
• 4th Gen (This Test): Can detect as early as 2-3 weeks (14-20 days) post-exposure.
Conclusive Result: While it detects early infection well, a negative result at 45 days is considered highly conclusive for 4th Gen tests.
Understanding the Results
🟢 Non-Reactive (Negative)
Neither HIV antibodies nor p24 antigens were found. If you are past the window period (45 days), you are HIV negative.
🔴 Reactive (Positive)
This indicates potential infection. As with all screening tests, a Reactive result is not a final diagnosis. It must be confirmed with a supplemental test (like HIV viral load PCR or Western Blot) to rule out false positives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. Because it detects the virus itself (Antigen) in addition to antibodies, it is more sensitive and has a shorter window period.
No, you can eat and drink normally before the test.
The 4th Generation assay uses advanced CLIA/CMIA technology which runs in specialized batches. To ensure maximum accuracy and quality control, the reporting time is slightly longer than rapid tests.
Disclaimer: A reactive result is a preliminary positive. Clinical correlation and confirmatory testing are mandatory for a final diagnosis.