Question
Can you clarify the diagram on your testing page please?
10 November 2010. Related: All topics, HIV testing.
Hi – On your Transmission & Testing factsheet, there is a diagram around production of antibodies – to the far right of the section it states the word ‘lifelong’. At the top of the diagram, there is a statement which implies that such production is indicated by the ‘lighter bars’ in the case of some people getting antibodies earlier or later. Does the wording ‘lifelong’ apply to the time that antibodies would remain in the body if you were positive?
It’s just that it is a little misleading as it may suggest that it could take a lifetime for antibodies to form. This would be a concern to people who have tested negative, such as myself. Hope this enquiry is understandable – maybe I am misinterpreting this and I do think that the rest of your site is extremely clear and precise otherwise! Many thanks
Answer
Thank you for your question.
I assume you are referring to this diagram?
I am sorry if you feel this is misleading. To clarify, once your body has made antibodies some of them will be lifelong and so if you have become infected at any time then the antibodies will show up on a test even if it is several years since the infection.