HIV P24 ANTIGEN TEST
⚡ Early Detection (Short Window Period)📋 Test Specifications
- Report Availability: Next Day Evening.
- Sample Required: Serum (Blood Sample).
- Methodology: CLIA / ELISA (High Sensitivity).
- Fasting Required: No. You can eat and drink normally.
- Confidentiality: 100% Guaranteed.
What is the HIV P24 Antigen Test?
The P24 Antigen test is a specialized blood test used to detect the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) at a very early stage of infection. Unlike standard tests that look for antibodies (the body's response), this test looks for the P24 Protein, which is a core part of the virus itself.
This protein appears in the blood very quickly after infection, allowing for detection days or even weeks before an antibody test would turn positive.
P24 Antigen vs. Antibody Test
- P24 Antigen: Detects the virus structure. Best for Acute/Early Infection (2-4 weeks after exposure).
- Antibody Test: Detects immune response. Best for Established Infection (1-3 months after exposure).
Why is this Test Performed?
The primary purpose of the P24 test is to shorten the window period. It is recommended for:
- Recent High-Risk Exposure: If exposure occurred less than a month ago.
- Anxiety Relief: For those who want answers sooner than the standard 90-day wait.
- Acute Symptoms: If you have fever, rash, or flu-like symptoms shortly after unsafe contact.
🔒 Our Commitment to Privacy
At Sanovra Lab, we follow strict protocols for HIV testing:
- Discreet sample collection.
- Reports delivered directly to your registered email/phone.
- No judgment, just medical professionalism.
The Window Period (Critical Info)
Timing is Everything: P24 Antigen levels rise rapidly after infection but then fall as the body produces antibodies.
Timeline:
• 1-10 Days: Usually too early to detect.
• 14-28 Days (2-4 Weeks): The IDEAL TIME for this test. P24 levels are highest here.
• After 4-6 Weeks: P24 may disappear as antibodies bind to it. At this stage, a standard Antibody test becomes more effective.
How to Interpret the Results
🟢 Non-Reactive (Negative)
No P24 antigen was detected. If you are within the 2-4 week window, this is a good sign. However, if exposure was very recent (under 10 days), a re-test may be needed later.
🔴 Reactive (Positive)
This suggests the presence of the HIV viral protein in your blood, indicating an active infection. Important: A reactive result is preliminary. It must be confirmed by further testing (like PCR Viral Load or Western Blot) as per medical guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You can, but a standard Antibody test is preferred at 3 months. The P24 antigen levels often drop after the first month, making Antibody tests more reliable for long-term screening.
Your report will be ready by the Next Day Evening. We prioritize speed for this test to reduce patient anxiety.
No, you do not need to fast. You can eat and drink normally before the sample collection.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only. A "Reactive" result must be confirmed by a specialist. Please consult a doctor for clinical correlation.