Rapid Testing for HIV Antibody: A Technology Whose Time Has Come

Abstract

Editorials15 September 1996Rapid Testing for HIV Antibody: A Technology Whose Time Has ComeFreya Spielberg, MD and William J. Kassler, MD, MPHFreya Spielberg, MDUniversity of Washington Seattle, WA 98195Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333Search for more papers by this author and William J. Kassler, MD, MPHUniversity of Washington Seattle, WA 98195Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333Search for more papers by this authorAuthor, Article, and Disclosure Informationhttps://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-125-6-199609150-00014 SectionsAboutFull TextPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissions ShareFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditEmail The benefits of widespread voluntary testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been recognized since 1985, when the first antibody test for HIV became available. Recently, the reasons to promote the early diagnosis of HIV infection have become even more compelling. Research has shown that knowledge of HIV-positive serostatus combined with counseling can facilitate behavioral change [1], allows for partner notification, and may be a valuable tool in the public response to HIV prevention. In addition, mounting evidence shows that early antiretroviral therapy [2] and antibiotic prophylaxis for opportunistic infections [3] can improve the health of HIV-infected persons. Furthermore, knowledge ...