January 26, 2012 | Health Matters

Saliva test yields good results in HIV tests

A new Canadian study has determined that a widely used saliva test for HIV is comparable to traditional blood tests.

Researchers from McGill University in Montreal and Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, compared data from previous studies conducted around the world. They discovered that the OraQuick HIV1/2 saliva test is 99% accurate for diagnosing HIV in high-risk populations, and about 97% in low-risk populations.

"Getting people to show up for HIV testing at public clinics has been difficult because of visibility, stigma, lack of privacy and discrimination. A confidential testing option such as self-testing could bring an end to the stigmatization associated with HIV testing," said Dr. Nitika Pant Pai, the study's lead author.

The painless OraQuick HIV-1/2 saliva test detects whether HIV antibodies are present in a person's oral fluid, and produces a result in 20 minutes. However, it is not fail-safe. False-positives and false-negatives are, if only slightly, more likely than with traditional blood-based tests. Study co-author Rosanna Peeling emphasized the need for professional follow-up and regular testing to ensure a person knows their actual HIV status.

Of course, even when you know your status, safer sex is still important to keep you, and your partners, safe.

Saliva Legit for HIV Testing [The Scientist]

Oral HIV test almost as accurate as blood test [CNet]