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p24 Antigen

Also known as: p24 capsid or core antigen; p24 antigen capture assay
Formal name: p24 antigen
Related tests: HIV antibody; HIV viral load; CD4 and CD8; HIV genotypic resistance testing; HIV phenotypic resistance testing

Common Questions

1.  Are there methods for testing for HIV other than a blood test?

Yes. Although the blood test for HIV antibody is the most commonly used test for HIV, new methods that use either saliva or urine are also available in some locations.

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2.  What are the symptoms of HIV infection?

Symptoms of acute HIV infection may mimic the flu or other systemic illnesses. The only reliable way to tell if you are infected with HIV is to get tested. Many people who have HIV do not experience symptoms related to HIV for many years. For more information on symptoms of HIV infection, visit the CDC’s web site.

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