Does the amount of blood sample affect the test result?
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
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Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I recently took the Alere Determine HIV-1/2 Ag/Ab (Human Immuno deficiency virus - antigen/antibody) rapid test. The counselor used two drops of buffer. The test brochure said to use only one drop. I would like to know whether the test is still valid or not.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Yes, the test is valid. There is nothing to worry about.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
When I called the manufacturer technical support, they said they have to follow whatever is in the pamphlet. So, one drop should have been used. Can you explain me why you think it is fine?
Hi, Welcome back to icliniq.com.
The concentration of antigen or antibody does not change with increasing the amount of sample. For example, if the antibody concentration is 10 per mL then it will remain the same with 1 drop, 2 drop or 100 drops. For the sake of convenience and to avoid wastage of sample it has been done as a single drop test.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you so much for your time and the expert information. My main concern is that, can the additional buffer droplet dilute my blood sample and make the test less accurate? Please confirm in simple term. Do you want me to repeat my test?
Hi, Welcome back to icliniq.com.
In simple term, it is theconcentration that affects the result and not the total amount in case of an antigen-antibody reaction. For example, 1 mL of blood has 4.5 million red blood cells. So, this concentration will remain constant in 10 mL or 100 mL. Nevertheless, you can go for repeat the HIV 1 and 2 tests as doubt is there in your mind.
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