HIV Western Blot

What do the test results mean?

Since the HIV Western blot test is an antibody detection test, its results will not be accurate until an HIV infected person seroconverts. Seroconversion describes the process by which the body "reacts" to the viral infection by trying to defend itself through production of antibodies. This process occurs anywhere from 2-12 months after infection with HIV. However, most patients will seroconvert within 6 months. After an infected person has seroconverted, a positive western blot indicates that an HIV infection is present.