Performance of the first fourth-generation rapid human immunodeficiency virus test in children.

Diagnosing HIV infection in infants by p24 antigen detection at point of care is likely to reduce infant morbidity and mortality. A fourth-generation rapid test evaluated on 202 stored samples from children of known age and clinical presentation demonstrated a sensitivity of <2% for detecting p24 antigen in 61 HIV-infected infants and demonstrated 100% sensitivity and specificity for detecting HIV antibodies in infants aged 6 months and younger.

Early diagnosis of in utero and intrapartum HIV infection in infants prior to 6 weeks of age.

Early initiation of antiretroviral therapy reduces HIV-related infant mortality. The early peak of pediatric HIV-related deaths in South Africa occurs at 3 months of age, coinciding with the earliest age at which treatment is initiated following PCR testing at 6 weeks of age. Earlier diagnosis is necessary to reduce infant mortality.

Identifying HIV infection in South African women: How does a fourth generation HIV rapid test perform?

Background: HIV rapid tests (RT) play an important role in tackling the HIV pandemic in South Africa. Third generation RT that detect HIV antibodies are currently used to diagnose HIV infection at the point of care. Determine Combo (DC) is the first fourth generation RT that detects both p24 antigen (p24Ag) and HIV antibodies (Ab), theoretically reducing the window period and increasing detection rates.