Question 1

What is Asymptomatic HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

Asymptomatic HIV infection is the second stage of HIV where the virus actively replicates in the body without producing visible symptoms. It is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1 or HIV-2) continuing to damage the immune system during a symptom-free latency period that can last years. The HIV 1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation test is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects both p24 antigens and HIV antibodies during this silent stage.

Question 2

What causes asymptomatic HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

Asymptomatic HIV infection is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1 or HIV-2) continuing to replicate in your body after the initial acute infection phase ends. During this stage, the virus silently attacks and destroys CD4 immune cells while you feel completely healthy and normal. This symptom-free period, also called clinical latency, can last 8-10 years without treatment, but the virus remains active and transmissible to others throughout this time.

Question 3

What is the best test for asymptomatic HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

The HIV 1/2 Antigen and Antibodies, Fourth Generation test is the most important test for asymptomatic HIV infection because it detects both the p24 antigen (a viral protein present early in infection) and HIV-1/HIV-2 antibodies your immune system produces in response to the virus. This dual-detection approach makes it the gold standard for identifying HIV during the symptom-free stage when you feel healthy but the virus is actively replicating. The test can confirm infection even years into the asymptomatic period, enabling early treatment that can suppress the virus to undetectable levels and prevent progression to AIDS.

Question 4

When should I get tested for asymptomatic HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you had a potential HIV exposure in the past (unprotected sex, needle sharing, or occupational exposure) even if you feel completely healthy now. Testing is essential if you are sexually active with multiple partners, have a partner whose HIV status is unknown, or are starting a new relationship. You should also get tested annually as part of routine health screening if you are between ages 13-64, or more frequently if you have ongoing risk factors, because the virus can hide without symptoms for years while remaining contagious.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of asymptomatic HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

Asymptomatic HIV infection produces no noticeable symptoms, which is why this stage is called clinical latency. You will feel completely normal and healthy during this period, with no fever, fatigue, rashes, or other signs that anything is wrong. However, the virus is actively working inside your body, slowly weakening your immune system by destroying CD4 cells. This is precisely why blood testing is the only way to know if you have HIV during this stage, as you cannot rely on how you feel to determine infection status.

Question 6

Who is at risk for asymptomatic HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who has had unprotected sexual contact with someone whose HIV status is unknown or positive is at risk, regardless of sexual orientation. People who share needles or injection drug equipment face significant risk, as do healthcare workers who experience needlestick injuries with contaminated blood. You are also at higher risk if you have had multiple sexual partners, have been diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections, or received blood transfusions before 1985. Babies born to mothers with untreated HIV and individuals who have experienced sexual assault are also at elevated risk.

Question 7

What happens if asymptomatic HIV infection is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Without treatment, asymptomatic HIV infection will eventually progress to symptomatic HIV and ultimately AIDS as your immune system becomes severely damaged. The virus will continue destroying CD4 immune cells until your body can no longer fight off infections and diseases, leaving you vulnerable to life-threatening opportunistic infections and cancers. You remain contagious throughout the asymptomatic period and can unknowingly transmit HIV to sexual partners or through shared needles. Early detection and treatment with antiretroviral therapy can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, prevent disease progression, and eliminate the risk of sexual transmission.

Question 8

Can asymptomatic HIV infection be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, asymptomatic HIV infection can be definitively diagnosed with a blood test, specifically the fourth-generation HIV test that detects both HIV antigens and antibodies. Blood testing is actually the only reliable method to diagnose HIV during the asymptomatic stage because there are no physical symptoms to alert you to the infection. The fourth-generation test can identify HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies your immune system produces in response to infection, as well as the p24 antigen that appears in blood shortly after infection. This makes blood testing essential for anyone who may have been exposed to HIV, regardless of how healthy they feel.

Question 9

How is asymptomatic HIV infection treated?

Accepted Answer

Asymptomatic HIV infection is treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART), a combination of medications that suppress HIV replication and prevent the virus from destroying your immune system. ART typically involves taking one to three pills daily, and when taken consistently, can reduce the virus to undetectable levels in your blood within 3-6 months. Once your viral load becomes undetectable, you cannot sexually transmit HIV to others (known as U=U or Undetectable equals Untransmittable), and you can live a normal lifespan with good health. Early treatment during the asymptomatic stage is crucial because it preserves your immune function and prevents progression to symptomatic HIV or AIDS.

Question 10

How can I prevent asymptomatic HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent HIV infection by using condoms consistently and correctly during all sexual encounters, limiting your number of sexual partners, and knowing the HIV status of your partners through testing. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily medication that reduces HIV transmission risk by more than 99% when taken as prescribed and is recommended for people at high risk. Never share needles, syringes, or injection equipment if you use drugs, and take advantage of needle exchange programs in your area. If you experience a potential HIV exposure, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent infection if started within 72 hours of exposure.

Question 11

What can I do at home for asymptomatic HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

Once diagnosed with asymptomatic HIV infection, the most important thing you can do at home is take your antiretroviral medications exactly as prescribed without missing doses, as consistent adherence is critical for viral suppression. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management to support your immune system. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as these can weaken immunity and interfere with HIV medications. Stay connected with your healthcare provider for regular monitoring of your viral load and CD4 count, and practice safe sex to prevent transmission to others and protect yourself from other sexually transmitted infections that can complicate HIV.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Asymptomatic HIV Infection Blood Test

What is Asymptomatic HIV infection?

What causes asymptomatic HIV infection?

What is the best test for asymptomatic HIV infection?

When should I get tested for asymptomatic HIV infection?

References

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