Home HIV test

Filed in archive Diagnostics on November 3, 2005

The FDA is considering the at-home HIV test:

A government advisory panel is considering whether to allow the use of the first HIV test a person can take entirely at home, alone.

The possible availability of the test, which relies on a swab on the inside of the mouth, has raised concerns about the potential psychological impact on people who learn they have the virus with no doctors or counselors present.

The test, called OraQuick Advance, is made by OraSure Technology, of Bethlehem, Pa. It is already widely available in health clinics and doctor's offices, and the FDA is considering permitting it to be sold over the counter.