title: Parallel Western blot analysis for HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies: absence of HIV-2 infection in Italian subjects at risk for AIDS.
abstract: Since HIV-2 infection has been identified in some European countries, we investigated whether HIV-2 infection is present in groups of Italian subjects at risk for AIDS. Our results clearly indicate that the parallel Western blot assay for HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies can detect HIV-2 infection, which is presently not epidemic in Italy. Careful examination of the serological data is mandatory before announcing the detection of HIV-2-infected patients.
mesh_terms: D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000209:etiology; D000914:Antibodies, Viral / Q000032:analysis*; D000956:Antigens, Viral / Q000032:analysis; D003429:Cross Reactions; D006678:HIV / Q000276:immunology*; D015483:HIV Antibodies; D015488:HIV Antigens; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D000914:Antibodies, Viral; D000956:Antigens, Viral; D015483:HIV Antibodies; D015488:HIV Antigens