Answer
In-depth

Frequently asked question: Which blood tests can be used to diagnose HIV in children (older than 18 months)?

There are two different diagnostic HIV tests. Blood must be taken for both tests (vene puncture).

HIV particle test This test (also called the HIV RNA test) shows how many virus particles you have in your blood (viral load). The test also allows you to see whether the treatment is successful. The fewer virus particles there are, the better the medication is working.
HIV antibody test Your blood can be screened for antibodies against HIV. These antibodies are produced by your own immune cells and are specifically directed against HIV.

Also interesting

Which blood tests can be used to track the course of an HIV infection?

HIV RNA VL This blood test enables you to determine the number of virus particles in your blood (viral load). It allows…

How does the HIV treatment work?

There are different types of HIV inhibitors, which all work in their own way. For instance, there are drugs that prevent…

Can you get pregnant by any method if you have an HIV infection?

If one or both partners has/have an HIV infection, it is necessary to consider how a pregnancy can be best achieved so a…

Which blood tests can be used to diagnose HIV in children under the age of eighteen months?

What effect do the HIV infection and HIV inhibitors have on your bones?

What effect do HIV inhibitors have on your metabolism?

Can medication be used to prevent infection with HIV after contact with HIV?

How can you prevent transmission of HIV during the birth?

Can you treat an HIV infection with medication?

What does HIV do to your body if you don't take any medication?

Relevant medical information

No answer for your question?

Ask your question about HIV to an expert

HIV diagnosis

What does it mean if an HIV test is 'indeterminate' or inconclusive?

When are children given an HIV test?

When is an HIV test negative?

When is an HIV test positive?

Which blood tests can be used to diagnose HIV in children (older than 18 months)?

Which blood tests can be used to diagnose HIV in children under the age of eighteen months?

Which blood tests can be used to track the course of an HIV infection?

Other subjects

General

HIV diagnosis

How often does HIV occur?

Immunity and HIV

Pregnancy and contraception

Telling people that you have HIV

Transmission of HIV

Treatment of HIV