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. 1993 Feb;69(1):29–30. doi: 10.1136/sti.69.1.29

The testing of saliva samples for HIV-1 antibodies: reliability in a non-clinic setting.

A J Hunt 1, J Connell 1, G Christofinis 1, J V Parry 1, P Weatherburn 1, F C Hickson 1, A P Coxon 1, P M Davies 1, T J McManus 1, S Sutherland 1
PMCID: PMC1195005  PMID: 8444477

Abstract

AIMS--To assess the reliability of saliva samples as a means of testing for HIV-antibodies outside clinic settings. METHODS--Men taking part in a non-clinic longitudinal study of homosexually active men provided samples of saliva and blood. Sera were screened using a competitive ELISA (Wellcozyme) and positive sera were confirmed by an indirect ELISA (Abbott). Saliva samples were screened either using an IgG captive radioimmunoassay or an amplified ELISA. RESULTS--A total of 534 paired saliva and blood samples were tested. Overall sensitivity was 96.2% and specificity was 100%. None of the saliva tests were falsely positive for HIV-1 antibodies. CONCLUSIONS--HIV-1 saliva tests can reliably be used in a non-clinic or field setting. However, if results are to be given to respondents, it is necessary to offer adequate counselling and consider the mechanisms for referral and follow-up for those that are found to be HIV-1 antibody positive.

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Selected References

These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.

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