Laboratory tests for human immunodeficiency viruses.

Abstract

Two types of human immunodeficiency viruses are known. Both type 1 (HIV-1) and type 2 (HIV-2) can lead to AIDS. This article describes laboratory tests that are used for diagnosis of HIV infection and for monitoring disease progression or the effects of therapy. These tests are based on detection of host antibodies, viral antigens, viral nucleotide sequences, or cultivation of the virus in vitro. The principles underlying test methods for differentiation between HIV-1 and HIV-2 are described.