RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 The testing of saliva samples for HIV-1 antibodies: reliability in a non-clinic setting. JF Genitourinary Medicine JO Genitourin Med FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP 29 OP 30 DO 10.1136/sti.69.1.29 VO 69 IS 1 A1 Hunt, A J A1 Connell, J A1 Christofinis, G A1 Parry, J V A1 Weatherburn, P A1 Hickson, F C A1 Coxon, A P A1 Davies, P M A1 McManus, T J A1 Sutherland, S YR 1993 UL http://sti.bmj.com/content/69/1/29.abstract AB AIMS--To assess the reliability of saliva samples as a means of testing for HIV-antibodies outside clinic settings. METHODS--Men taking part in a non-clinic longitudinal study of homosexually active men provided samples of saliva and blood. Sera were screened using a competitive ELISA (Wellcozyme) and positive sera were confirmed by an indirect ELISA (Abbott). Saliva samples were screened either using an IgG captive radioimmunoassay or an amplified ELISA. RESULTS--A total of 534 paired saliva and blood samples were tested. Overall sensitivity was 96.2% and specificity was 100%. None of the saliva tests were falsely positive for HIV-1 antibodies. CONCLUSIONS--HIV-1 saliva tests can reliably be used in a non-clinic or field setting. However, if results are to be given to respondents, it is necessary to offer adequate counselling and consider the mechanisms for referral and follow-up for those that are found to be HIV-1 antibody positive.