testing

Hi There Thank you for using AIDS Vancouver for your source of HIV/AIDS related information. No HIV test has a high rate of false positive. However, the PCR test does have a slightly higher rate false positive rate than the ELISA (antibody) test. The difference in accuracy between these two tests are 99.8% for the ELISA test, and 99.6% for the PCR test. As you can see this is only a slight difference, however the .2% discrepancy is one of the reason that the ELISA is used as the conventional testing method in Canada (the other reason is that it is more cost effective). PCR tests are useful because they detect the genetic material of HIV itself so they are accurate within 2-3 of exposure. This is why they are used to screen blood and organ donations. However, the PCR test usually is not covered by medical, and must be paid for in full by the individual who wishes to take the test. For more information on false positives and negatives, please read this: http://www.aidsmap.com/False-negatives-and-false-positives/page/1322981/ Please feel free to contact us for any further information. Wishing you good health,
Stephanie Helpline
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604.696.4666