Test code links throughout this Guide refer to the corresponding test in the User's Guide. During the first stage of the assay, patient serum is diluted and incubated in a microwell containing these peptides attached to the microwell wall. HIV antibodies, if present, bind to the peptides. The plate is washed to remove unbound conjugate. In the final stage, enzyme substrates are added.
Color develops if antibodies are present.
The development is stopped with the addition of acid and the plate is read at 450 nm. Following acute infection, the patient develops a mild illness within 4-8 weeks. HIV antigen is detectable about 4 weeks after infection and antibodies are first detectable at about 6-8 weeks. Full seroconversion requires an additional 4-6 weeks. A reactive anti-HIV test is repeated in duplicate.