HIV Testing at Parkhealth Medical Centres in Cape Town

What is HIV?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which attacks the body’s white blood cells, making it difficult for the immune system to fight off secondary infections.

Testing for HIV

There are three main types of HIV testing.

Antibody Screening

An antibody test will check for the protein that your body produces within 2 and 8 weeks of potential HIV infection and these are generally quite accurate.

Antigen/Antibody Combination Test

These tests are able to detect HIV much earlier than the antibody test. This test checks for the HIV antigen (a substance in the body which causes the immune system to respond against the substance) known as the p24 protein. This protein forms part of the virus and can show up in the body between 2 and 4 weeks after potential infection. At the same time, the test will check for antibodies.

Nucleic Acid Test

This is also commonly referred to as the RNA test which looks for the actual virus. This test can detect HIV at around 10 days after potential infection. Because of the high costs associated with this test, it isn’t always first option and is mostly reserved for individuals who are high risk and/or showing flu-like symptoms after potential infection.

HIV Testing Results

Should you test positive for HIV, our doctors will provide you with a counselling session which will include treatment going forward. Although there is no cure for HIV, treatment allows you to still live a long, healthy life. Our doctors will be there to guide you every step of the way. We also take privacy and confidentiality seriously and your personal information as well as test results will be protected at all times.

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