HIV self-tests are categorized as what type of test?

HIV self-tests are categorized as antibody tests because they are designed to detect the presence of antibodies to the HIV virus in a person's blood or oral fluid. When a person is infected with HIV, their immune system responds by producing antibodies specific to the virus. These antibodies can typically be detected within a few weeks to several months after infection, making antibody tests effective for screening.

The self-test allows individuals to perform the test at home, offering privacy and convenience. It typically involves a simple process, such as a fingerstick sample for blood tests or using oral fluid. The results are usually available within minutes, enabling individuals to quickly know their HIV status.

Other types of tests, like nucleic acid tests, directly detect the virus itself, while antigen tests identify specific proteins produced by the virus. Viral load tests measure the quantity of HIV in the blood and are primarily used for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment rather than for initial diagnosis. These distinctions clarify why antibody tests are the classification applied to HIV self-tests.