hiv subtypes

[blp5217]

Hey everyone,
I'm having some difficulty figuring out which HIV subtypes there are and what they mean for various PCR/Antibody tests. I read that most antibody tests were designed with the "B" subtype in mind, but what of people with other subtypes, such as eastern europeans where the "A" subtype is more prevalent? do these antibody tests not pick them up? In addition, I've seen that many qualitative PCR tests have a slightly more difficult time picking up various subtypes for the same reason as the antibodies. Can someone shed some light on this?

[RainLover71]

An Elisa antibody test will pick up all the subtypes so stop worrying.

[blp5217]

I'm honest here, this last answer and I'll delete the account and you never have to answer me again. Help me understand this, please!!

[blp5217]

that's fine, i wont be posting on here. but you didn't answer my question. i don't think its fair to do this, especially when this had nothing to do with previous issues or posts of mine.

[Teak]

Move on, you don't have an HIV concern.

[blp5217]

this was a legit question, had nothing to do with previous exposures though! i was seeking a real answer! i am sorry, i didnt mean to have this

[Teak]

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