Are rapid HIV tests more accurate or less accurate than EIAs?
The rapid HIV test is just as accurate as an EIA. As is true of all screening tests (including the EIA), a reactive rapid HIV test result must be confirmed. Studies in countries where more than one type of rapid HIV test is available show that specific combinations of two or more different rapid HIV tests can provide results as reliable as those from an EIA and Western blot or IFA, the combination that is currently used in the United States. A second rapid HIV test for persons whose first rapid HIV test is reactive could significantly improve the predictive value of rapid HIV testing.
