Objectives Recent Infection Testing Algorithm (RITA) tests are used in public health surveillance to identify the incidence of recently acquired HIV infection. This can then be used to direct public health interventions and evaluate their effects. We aimed to outline how RITA tests may be used in clinical practice with individual patients, as well as highlighting the cautions needed.

Methods The clinical and laboratory aspects of RITA tests have been reviewed in the paper together with their clinical applications.

Results For individuals, RITA tests can help to confirm primary HIV infection and can be useful with elements of partner notification. However, careful evaluation of the result is required and it should be considered in conjunction with the clinical history and findings.

Conclusions There are major epidemiological and public health advantages in using RITA testing but there are also advantages to using the RITA test on an individual basis, provided that it is used appropriately.