Summary

• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects your immune system by destroying CD4 cells.
• You are at a higher risk of getting HIV if you have unprotected sex, share needles, already have another STI and get a piercing or tattoo with unsterile equipment.
• Untreated HIV usually leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) within 10 years.
• HIV can be diagnosed by doing a blood test.
• Antiretroviral therapy is very effective treatment for HIV; if you take your treatment properly, you can live a long and healthy life with HIV.

These key facts are from healthdirect.gov.au (accessed 28 Jan 2025). Visit the healthdirect website for more information about HIV.

Relevant Tests

If your doctor suspects you have HIV, they may request one or more tests.

If you are diagnosed with HIV, some of these tests will be used to monitor and manage your condition.

Find information about specific tests:

• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral load
• HIV serology
• HIV p24 antigen
• HIV genotypic resistance