Research Protocol - An Evaluation of False Positive HIV Results due to Testing Errors

Abstract

An unacceptably high frequency of false positive HIV test results has been reported in various settings. Given the severity and implications of an HIV+ diagnosis, a false positive result is likely to be psychologically traumatic and may result in inappropriate and potentially harmful treatment. The current HIV testing algorithm being used in Zimbabwe does not include repeat testing for HIV positive results, and it is not currently known whether testing errors are leading to false positive diagnoses at a significant rate. WHO recommends that an additional specimen for testing be collected at some point after the initial diagnosis is made. This procedure aims to rule out possible technical or clerical errors including specimen mislabelling and transcription errors. STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the number of false positive HIV results due to testing errors, using the WHO retesting recommendations, in 6 clinics in Harare, Zimbabwe.