Second generation HIV test were based on the recombinant antigens for HIV-1 p24. The window period was up to 4 to 6 weeks post-infection. Third generation HIV test can detect IgM antibody in addition to second generation tests. Fourth generation tests is a test which can detect both HIV-specific antigen p24 and HIV antibodies. The primary form of testing used today is a fourth-generation HIV test. While other methods such as PCR are available and can deliver a result faster, they are not widely employed for financial reasons. A fourth-generation test detects an HIV infection within two weeks and has a specificity of >99.8% and a sensitivity of 99.5% . The window period is time between HIV infection and the point when a test will give an accurate result for a certain percentage of samples. Different types of tests have different window periods. 4th generation antibody/antigen (Ab/Ag) tests: 45 days to detect 99% of samples. 3rd generation antibody only tests: 60 daysto detect 99% of samples. Point-of-care test to aid in the diagnosis of infection with HIV-1 and HIV-2. This test is suitable for use in multi-test algorithms designed for the statistical validation of rapid HIV test results. When multiple rapid HIV tests are available, this test should be used in appropriate multi-test algorithms. 15 mins. The addition of p24 antigen detection decreases the window period by 5 days when compared to previous generation tests . Using 4 th generation assays for screening high incidence populations has been proven to be more cost-effective compared to 3rd generation tests in identifying new cases, resulting in fewer transmissions and better health The INSTI HIV-1/HIV-2 Antibody Test is considered a 3rd generation screening test since it is designed to detect antibodies that are generated in response to HIV infection. Extensive research studies have shown that the INSTI HIV-1/HIV-2 Antibody Test is extremely accurate when performed correctly. The accuracy of medical tests are .

3rd generation hiv test accuracy