The blood sample is separated into each individual component in an electrical field and HIV antibodies can be seen directly. A trained technician is required when reading the results since errors in interpretation are possible.

Try interpreting a Western Blot test yourself! Compare the tests for person 1, 2, 3, and 4. Check off the people who you think are HIV-positive. Patient #1 Patient #2 Patient #3 Patient #4

Sources:

• “AIDS.” Encyclopedia Britannica. 2004. Encyclopedia Britannica Online. 4 Jan. 2004. <http://search.eb.com/eb/article?Eu=4225>.
• Check, William A. AIDS. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1988. The Encyclopedia of Health.
• Silverstein, Alvin. AIDS: An All-About Guide for Young Adults. Springfield: Enslow Publishers, 1999.
• Storad, Conrad J. Inside AIDS: HIV Attacks the Immune System. Minneapolis: Lerner Publications Company, 1998.
• "Western Blot Test Sheet." Museum of Science and Industry. <http://www.msichicago.org/ed/AIDS/hivtst7.htm>