After entering the body, the human immunodeficiency virus is introduced into the immune system (CD4 T-lymphocytes), where it multiplies and embeds its own genetic information into the DNA of the host cell. The natural process of dividing the latter leads to duplication of viral genes, which, after a multiple cycle, leads to their massive distribution.
To warn the body about the danger that has arisen, the affected cell exposes particles of a pathogenic microorganism on its surface - antigens. Immunity identifies them and produces strictly specific protein molecules - antibodies, which are designed to destroy the affected structures with their subsequent disposal.
However, given the fact that HIV initially affects the immune system, its defense mechanisms are defective, so the virus cannot be destroyed, it spreads even more, infecting new cells.
One of the simplest, most accessible, early and rapid tests for HIV pathology is to determine the content in the blood of the very antibodies, the abbreviated name of which is antibodies to HIV 1, 2 (to different types).
Indications for the search for anti-HIV:
The patient's desire (including on an anonymous basis);
Before carrying out invasive interventions or major surgical operations;
Symptoms of damage to the immune system (body temperature up to 35.5 * C, weakness, sweating, chills, chronic infections that cannot be treated, enlarged lymph nodes, frequent herpes, persistent intestinal disorders);
Sex with a partner who is questionable about HIV;
Injecting drug use;
Contact with body fluids from a charged patient (for medical personnel, tattooists);
Preventive examinations;
Pregnancy.
Be aware that HIV antibodies do not appear immediately after infection. This happens on average after 25 days, sometimes dragging on up to three months - the so-called incubation period. Therefore, after an episode of a high probability of infection, the antibody test must be repeated after 3 and 6 months.
If the answer is positive (anti-HIV antibodies are detected), the sample is repeated in the same way, but with reagents from a different series (to exclude false-positive results). If antibodies to HIV are detected and repeated, then the blood is checked using a different method, where viral antigens are determined. This is a more reliable study, according to its conclusion, an unambiguous conclusion is drawn about the presence or absence of HIV infection.
Despite the fact that today the disease is considered incurable, its timely diagnosis allows you to start intensive courses of antiviral therapy on time. Thanks to this treatment, a full-fledged quality of life, high social adaptation are preserved, and the development of the final stage of the disease - AIDS, is delayed for the longest possible period.
