Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay - ELISA

What do the test results mean?

The results of the test are usually either positive or negative. In some cases, the test results are not clear. In this setting, a repeat test or an entirely different test may be needed to confirm or rule out the condition or infection.

If the test results are positive, the specific infection or condition being tested for may be present. For example, a positive result may indicate that a person has the HIV virus or has an allergy. The meaning of the results often depend on why the test was ordered. The healthcare provider generally discusses the meaning of the results.