Abstract: The diagnosis of HIV in resource-limited settings is performed based on an algorithm employing 2–3 rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). This strategy has allowed a lifesaving scale-up of HIV diagnosis, as it permits testing to be decentralized outside of the laboratory. Even though the situation is minimal, some individuals will be falsely diagnosed as HIV positive in this strategy. When the clinical conditions, patient history, and results are not concorded, samples repeatedly tested positive on screening assays can be tested by a supplementary assay, and if negative by using nucleic acid testing (NAT). In our case the scenario was different, the woman who had married a husband living with HIV, had signs and symptoms of HIV was tested for HIV and the first test-Stat-pack result was negative. In this case, the counselor who was strong-minded that the woman is positive did the second and third tests and the results were reactive. Finally, the result was determined by NAT testing, and it was positive for HIV. Looking at this incident and reading the case reports in other countries, we realized that clients’ history and exposure to risk behaviors need to be considered before reporting that the client is negative for HIV. We also recommend that low- or middle-income countries to have supplementary testing technologies to prevent missed opportunities and to provide NAT testing for HIV-negative clients who had a history of exposure to HIV-positive individuals and had clinical manifestations of HIV.Abstract: The diagnosis of HIV in resource-limited settings is performed based on an algorithm employing 2–3 rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). This strategy has allowed a lifesaving scale-up of HIV diagnosis, as it permits testing to be decentralized outside of the laboratory. Even though the situation is minimal, some individuals will be falsely diagnosed as H...Show More
