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Department

Microbiology

Preferred Sample Type

HIV 1/2 antigen/antibody confirmatory

Suitable Specimen Types

  • Serum
5ml

Turnaround Time

5 days

Sample Stability

Stored for 2 years

HIV 1/2 antigen/antibody confirmatory

Patient Preparation

For taking blood samples we recommend that users follow either their local protocols or “The Royal Marsden Manual of Clinical Nursing Procedures”.

Red top blood (serum) samples

  • Sufficient blood for the test should be drawn into red topped (no additive) vacuum tubes.

Notes

Positive screening results are confirmed by two further assays (EIA followed by typing assay). If antigen only positive, an EDTA sample will be requested for viral load testing.

All significant results telephoned

Specifications

  • EQA Scheme?: Yes
  • EQA Status: NEQAS