Choosing a Test: Traditional vs. Rapid HIV Tests

All HIV tests detect the presence of HIV antibodies. The most commonly used HIV tests are EIAs (enzyme immunoassays) and ELISAs (enzyme-linked immunoassays). These traditional HIV tests and the newer rapid tests perform comparably. They have similar accuracy rates, and both have varieties that can test specimens collected by venipuncture or by less-invasive methods, such as oral fluid, urine, and fingerstick blood. Traditional and rapid tests both need to have reactive (positive) test results confirmed with a more specific test, such as a Western Blot.

The major difference between traditional and rapid tests is how quickly their results are available. Rapid HIV tests can produce results in as little as 20 minutes, while traditional tests can take several days. Another feature of rapid tests is that some can be used at the point of care. Immediate results and the flexibility to perform tests at the point of care make rapid tests very useful in emergency departments, where medical encounters are short and the interaction between provider and patient is a one-time occurrence.

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