Q and A

Question

Is a Centaur test third or fourth generation?

14 September 2010. Related: All topics, HIV testing.

Hi

I have heard that a Centaur HIV test is an ELISA test but I was wondering what type of ELISA test it would be e.g 3rd or 4th generation and also is it performed using the machine?

Answer

Answer: Charlotte Walker

Thank you for your question.

The Centaur test is a third generation ELISA test. It is done with a machine and samples are loaded by a laboratory technician. For more information on the test please follow this link and read the section headed ‘Antibody tests’.

6 comments

  1. Charlotte Walker •

    Yes

  2. john •

    Okay thank you. So I can say that my test is accurate then?

  3. Charlotte Walker •

    If you tested at 16 weeks then it would be extremely unlikely to get a false negative (less than 0.01%). For more information about false negatives please follow this link and scroll down the page.

  4. john •

    So what are the chances of it being false negative using this machine?

  5. Charlotte Walker •

    Yes it is conclusive any time after 12 weeks so 16 weeks is fine. The results you were given would be correct.

  6. john •

    So being a third generation test on the Centaur machine is accurate and conclusive after 12 weeks as I had my test 16 weeks after exposure?