Detecting HIV through testing, widely known as HIV screening, is the only definitive method for diagnosis.
The duration of receiving HIV test results varies, and a universal timeframe cannot be pinpointed.
Various tests analyze your blood or bodily fluids to detect HIV. Since it takes time for antibodies to develop or the virus to reach detectable levels, initial symptoms might not prompt an immediate conclusion without testing.
But, how long do HIV test results take to come back?
How Long Do HIV Test Results Take
Nowadays, multiple HIV test options are available, with each varying in the time required for results. For instance, self-administered HIV tests provide results within approximately 20 minutes using a blood or oral fluid sample. On the other hand, rapid antibody tests are slightly longer, often necessitating around 30 minutes for results. In instances of a positive result, follow-up screenings are conducted using the initial blood or oral fluid sample to confirm the findings. In some cases, it may take up to 6 months for sufficient antibodies to develop for detection.
Home HIV Tests
Two main types of at-home HIV tests exist: antigen/antibody tests and antibody tests.
Antigen/antibody test. This test involves analyzing a blood sample to detect both HIV antigens and antibodies. The immune system generates antibodies when exposed to viruses like HIV, while antigens trigger an immune response indicating a possible infection.
Antibody test. This test identifies antibodies produced in response to HIV. Antibody tests using blood samples from a vein can detect HIV more rapidly than those using fingerprick blood or oral fluid samples. Results typically take around 30 minutes or less.
The time for results also varies with the testing method. Oral swabs can take 20 to 40 minutes, while fingerprick blood samples sent to a lab may take up to 7 business days. Urine or vaginal swabs, used to test for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can take several days.
Meticulous adherence to test instructions is crucial, particularly when performed without professional oversight.
HIV RNA Test
The HIV RNA test, a type of nucleic acid test (NAT), detects HIV’s genetic material in the blood. It offers results as quickly as 10 days post-exposure. Since it detects the virus directly rather than antibodies, it is valuable for recent exposure diagnosis with accurate results in under two weeks or a maximum of one month.
CVS HIV Test
Similar to other at-home HIV tests, the CVS test yields results within 15-20 minutes. CVS’s newer antigen/antibody combination tests, or “fourth generation” tests, detect HIV in 99% of individuals tested 13 to 42 days post-exposure. Studies indicate that the CVS HIV test boasts the highest detection rate among current screening methods.
HIV Drugs
HIV treatment involves using antiretroviral therapy (ART), a highly effective medication regimen. ART is recommended for everyone diagnosed with HIV and should commence immediately upon a positive diagnosis.
The timeline for starting HIV drug treatment is based on healthcare provider recommendations to maintain an undetectable viral load. Adhering to prescribed HIV medication helps manage the viral load and keeps CD4 cell counts high. Missing treatments may allow the virus to multiply rapidly, weakening the immune system.