Multiplex Early Detection

Price

£295

Turnaround

5 - 7 days

Professional

N/A

4.8
4.8/5
4.7
4.7/5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

Testing For HIV, Hepatitis B & C

The multiplex early detection test can be administered soon after potential exposure to infected blood. It functions by amplifying minute amounts of genetic material in a sample to a detectable level, enabling the identification of even trace amounts of the target organism.

Multiplex testing stands out as the most accurate method currently available for detecting HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.

Multiplex Early Detection Overview

The multiplex test is a blood test, and is sometimes also referred to as a PCR test (Polymerase Chain Reaction), or NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification), which works by analysing DNA to detect tiny amounts of viral genetic material.

This test can be taken soon after exposure to the HIV virus (minimum of 10 days), as early detection is key in preventing the spread of these infections and ensuring effective treatment.

How The Test Works

Multiplex Testing uses a multiplex technology that allows simultaneous detection of multiple markers to detect and measure multiple antibodies, antigens, or nucleic acids in a single blood sample.

A healthcare professional collects a small sample of blood, usually from a vein in the arm. The collected blood sample is processed in a laboratory where trace amounts of DNA from the sample are then amplified and compared to the virus’ own unique DNA sequence.

The test is highly sensitive and highly accurate, and your results will be available within a week.

 

 

 

doctor
Woman doctor taking notes

Who Is The Test For?

The Multiplex HIV and Hepatitis Early Detection Blood Test is beneficial for the following groups:

  • High-Risk Individuals: People who engage in behaviours or have occupations that increase their risk of infection, such as intravenous drug users who share needles, individuals with multiple sexual partners, people with partners known to be infected with HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C, and healthcare workers.
    Pregnant Women: Early detection is crucial to prevent mother-to-child transmission of these infections.
  • Patients With Symptoms Or Known Exposure: Individuals showing symptoms of these infections or who know they have been exposed to the virus.
  • Immigrants From High Prevalence Areas: People coming from countries with high rates of HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C.

Benefits Of Testing

The benefits of getting a Multiplex Test include:

  • Early Detection: The test allows for the early detection of infections, often before symptoms appear. This can lead to earlier intervention and treatment, improving health outcomes.
  • Comprehensive Screening: It simultaneously screens for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, providing a comprehensive assessment of potential blood-borne infections in a single test.
  • High Accuracy: Multiplex testing is highly sensitive and specific, reducing the likelihood of false negatives and false positives.
  • Prevention Of Transmission: Identifying infections early helps prevent the spread to others, particularly in high-risk populations or situations where individuals might unknowingly transmit the virus.
  • Informed Decision-Making: Knowledge of one’s infection status enables informed decisions regarding lifestyle, sexual practices, and health care, reducing the risk of further complications.
Woman doctor pointing
Serious doctor with arms crossed

Steps To Take After A Positive Test Result

When you test positive for HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C using a Multiplex Early Detection Blood Test, several steps follow to confirm the diagnosis and begin appropriate management.

Additionally, a comprehensive medical evaluation will be carried out to assess your overall health, the stage of the infection, and any complications. This includes physical exams, additional blood tests, and possibly imaging studies.

A treatment plan will be created to ensure your infections and disease are successfully and effectively managed. Counselling services will be offered to help you understand the diagnosis, cope with the emotional impact, and manage any necessary lifestyle changes.

Ongoing monitoring through regular medical appointments will be necessary to track the progress of the infection, the effectiveness of treatment, and any potential side effects or complications.

Key Figures

Globally, approximately 39 million people are living with HIV, while about 254 million have chronic Hepatitis B and nearly 50 million have chronic Hepatitis C.

In the UK, 106 890 people are living with HIV. Estimates suggest that 180 000 individuals have chronic Hepatitis B infection, with approximately 62 600 living with chronic Hepatitis C.

Together, chronic Hepatitis B and C contribute to 1.3 million deaths worldwide annually due to liver disease and cancer.

Doctor with stethoscope

Statistics​

rise in STI cases among 15-24-year-olds since 2021
0 %
increase in gonorrhoea since 2021
0 %
increase in chlamydia since 2021
0
increase in syphilis since 2021
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Alternative HIV Testing Methods

For comprehensive Multiplex Early Detection testing (especially if you suspect exposure to multiple STIs), our clinic can provide the necessary screening. We also offer:

  • Instant HIV Test: This test detects HIV antibodies in the blood and is an excellent option for quickly identifying HIV after recent potential exposure, providing results within 60 seconds.
  • HIV I & II Antibody And P24 Antigen Test: This test effectively identifies early markers of HIV infection in its initial stages and provides results within 4 to 6 working hours.

How To Book A Sexual Health Screen Appointment?

book online or call us

Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.

Choose your test type

On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.

meet with our experts

You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.

The Procedure

preparing for appointment

Pre-Appointment

The test can be taken 10 days or more following exposure to the virus. It is important to ensure that you arrive for your test well-hydrated to make the process easier.

during the appointment

Appointment

The Multiplex test is a simple blood test. It analyses genetic material in your blood to detect infections such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.

post appointment

Post-Appointment

There are several options available on how to receive the results: the doctor can give you a call, we can email you the results or you can contact the clinic at the time of your convenience.

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pricing

No hidden charges, phlebotomy fees or prescription charges.
Test prices do not include a consultation.

Full STD screen

HIV, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis, Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea

STD blood testing

HIV, Hepatitis B & C, and Syphilis

Fast Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea

Results are ready in 4-6 hours.

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Specialist Medical Team

We work with experienced consultants & healthcare professionals who have received positive feedback from our patients, and with whom we have established long-term relationships.

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How is the Multiplex PCR test different from the antibodies test?
The Multiplex PCR test detects the presence of genetic HIV material, rather than antibodies. Multiplex testing locates the DNA copy of the HIV virus itself. This is usually present sooner than the antibodies that the body produces in response to an infection.
How accurate is the Multiplex PCR test in detecting HIV?
Recent research suggests that the Multiplex test is 98% accurate if taken 10 days after exposure.
Is the test painful?
Multiplex testing is done using a blood sample, so the test procedure is no different to other sexual health blood screenings. The blood test is quick and relatively painless; you may feel a slight scratch or pricking feeling when the needle is inserted.

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