Which laboratory test is essential for diagnosing HIV infection?

The HIV antibody test is essential for diagnosing HIV infection because it specifically detects the presence of antibodies that the immune system produces in response to the HIV virus. This test is designed to identify whether an individual has been infected with HIV, typically within a few weeks to a few months after exposure, as that is the time it usually takes for the antibodies to become detectable.

In contrast, a complete blood count does not provide specific information about HIV infection; rather, it measures various components of blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which can offer insights into overall health or other conditions but not specifically for HIV.

The blood glucose test is used to evaluate blood sugar levels and diagnose conditions like diabetes, while liver function tests measure the health of the liver and can indicate liver disease or damage but are not specific for HIV infection. Therefore, the HIV antibody test is the preferred, effective method for diagnosing HIV.